Fashion Maven... Mommy

Sephora VIB Sale - Beauty Must-Haves Plus What's In My Cart!

2020-04-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

The Sephora Sale is here and i for one always have some sort of 'wish list' ready to go for these sales! First, i try and focus mainly on replenishing products i consistently use and love! I will link a few previous Sephora posts that i've done because every product i've ever discussed during those posts are still very much in rotation around these parts! Before we get into that let me give you the scoop on the sale! If you are a VIB Rouge you'll get 20% off your purchase from April 17th until May 1st. If you're a VIB you'll get 15% off your purchase from April 21st until April 29th and if you're a Beauty Insider you'll get 10% off your purchase from April 23rd until April 27th! These savings really add up, especially if you have multiple items on your wish list. Also note, this sale is only happening twice this year... now and then Holiday so it's now or next Winter!

See a few previous recommendations here, and here.

For this post i want to quickly chat about how to tackle this sale and how to not be reckless about it (unless you want to, i mean, you do you boo!) Think about products you use consistently and make a list. Categorize your list as it makes it easier to determine a budget for each category. For instance, i swear by this line of products for my hair. I was first introduced by my hair dresser and i have been a fan ever since. So basically whenever Sephora has a sale, i stock up on the products from the line that i am running low on.

Now let's chat skincare! I have a lot of what i use linked in previous posts which you can take a peek above. BUT, Dermalogica reached out recently asking me to select some products to try. I decided to try four products that i've been so curious about and the reviews were amazing! So i'm currently using these and will have more information on them once i have used them long enough to fully formulate an opinion. Either way i thought i'd share what i'm currently incorporating into my skincare routine!

Dermalogica Precleanse

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50

Now my favorite category... MAKEUP! Oh my gosh makeup makes me soooo happy

and i know that if you're here and if you're a loyal FMM reader, it makes you happy as well! Not to be repetitive but any previous makeup recommendations i've made, i still love and recommend! Most recently i have hit pan on my Natasha Denona Tan Bronze and Glow Palette and couldn't recommend it enough! I literally wear it on my cheeks as well as my eyes... one stop shop situation all the way! In fact, if we were able to travel, this would be the only palette i would take. I will probably buy another one soon because it's uhhhmazing! You can catch my full review here! Also, i cannot write a Sephora post and not mention my tried and trusted Grande Lash Serum! I've written about here a few times but have another planned post with more specifics but if you're looking for a lash serum that WORKS, this is it! Also, i recently purchased the Grande Lash Brow Serum and have been using it religiously so i will keep you posted soon! But this is seriously the perfect time to stock up on this!

So now lets chat about what i currently have in my Sephora shopping cart! Some of these items are new releases that i'm dying to try. I'm currently well stocked on everything else so for this Sephora sale, these are the purchases that i plan to make... of course, there's alway room for more but i'm trying hard to be good... uh so hard!!!

Everytime Natasha Denona releases a new mini palette i'm instantly drawn to the color stories. The latest launch has been on my radar since i first laid eyes on it! Seriously, how insanely gorgeous is this palette! I am a sucker for a good lip balm so naturally when Summer Fridays released this one i instantly added to cart! Hope it doesn't disappoint! When i first spotted this Tom Ford palette in Mink Mirage on Jacey Dupree of Damsel in Distress, my jaw dropped to the ground and i had to be revived back to life... ok enough drama but it seriously blew me away! It's what smoky eye dreams are made of... oh my gosh! Look at it... i know, i know... and you're welcome! When it comes to blushes, i love a good peachy pink. So when Natasha Denona released this swoon worthy beauty, i couldn't resist! Lastly, this Nars bronzer i'm a bit on the fence about. I mean it's absolutely stunning. My concern is that it might be too shimmery but my gosh, could you just imagine swiping this gorgeousness on sun kissed skin?! Perfect for that summer vacation to Puerta Backyarda (that's essentially where i'll be spending my summer this year lol).

Now on to product recommendations! I either own the products below and LOVE them, or they're currently on my wish list! Simply click on the product that peeks your interest and you'll be taken right to the site! I'm curious to know what you're shopping for! Thank you so much for reading! Xoxo, Carla - FMM

What I Bought This Week To Keep Me Cozy At Home!

2020-03-26T16:29:00.001-04:00

Where do i even begin?!!! A few weeks ago, if you told me that our country would be practically shut down, i would have laughed! No way, not us! Now, i sit here in full disbelief at the state of not only our nation, but the entire world! Schools are closed indefinitely here in New Jersey and as a teacher, i'm now (like many others) essentially home-schooling my girls and trying to keep my mind busy so that i don't go down this deep hole filled with uncertainties and fear. At this point, i don't even know if Mia's surgery will even happen in June. I most certainly can't dwell on any of this right now because it will easily spiral me out of control. So instead, i'm choosing to find the positive in all this. Being home has allowed me the gift of time... time to do so many of the things on my 'to do someday' list! It's also so nice to actually have a little more time to do some of the things i love such as play with new makeup, photograph content for the blog, rearrange my space a bit, etc. It's so important to find things you are passionate about and devote a little time to embrace them.

Time can also be a little bit tricky because it's so easy to do a lot of shopping online right no now! I'm trying to be mindful of a few things. First, it will probably be a while before we can actually go anywhere so i don't want to stock up things i cannot enjoy now. Second, i'm trying to reassess my needs versus my wants. Right now, i want to feel cozy but i don't want to be in my pajamas all day. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's nice to enjoy a pajama day here and there but i think it's so important to make an effort to actually get dressed everyday. Having said that, comfort is also key at this point. I'm home so i want to feel comfy and cozy without sacrificing style! Lucky for me, sweatsuits are a major thing right now, particularly matching sets! So i browsed H&M and ordered a few essentials to get me through this quarantine situation in comfort without compromising style. I ordered a couple of joggers and a combination of neutral color hoodies and sweatshirts. I also ordered a few neutral basic tees for warmer days. I kept my palette to black, white, creamy beige and pale pinks. I figured i could mix and match while ensuring that the color palette is timeless!

Another thing that brings me loads of joy is a good candle! One of my favorites is the Volcano Candle from Anthropologie! Not only are their candle jars a beautiful statement piece, but they smell incredible! If you've ever walked into an Anthropologie store, then you have most certainly smelled this gorgeous candle. I have been burning it daily and i love to display it on this tiny wood board that i recently picked up. There is nothing better than waking up, putting on my cozies, lighting the fireplace, lighting my favorite candle and brewing my coffee. It just gets my day started right!

Let's not forget a great pair of cozy slippers! I love these fuzzy little cuties and have a very similar pair that i adore and wear often! I think it's important to find a pair of cozy slippers to live in during these times at home and these are the ones for me!

What are some of things you're doing to keep sane during this time of crisis? Wherever you are, i hope you and your loved ones are healthy and safe! I truly hope our nation can get back on its feet soon after this battle with Covid-19. Sending much love to all who are working so tirelessly to help combat the coronavirus. You are all in my thoughts and prayers! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

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Natasha Denona Tan Bronze & Glow Palette - One Product Does It ALL!

2020-02-29T12:03:00.002-05:00

I spotted this Natasha Denona palette and was immediately drawn to it! It was warm and i love the combination of creams and powders. It reminded me of Summer and honestly, i'm so ready for warm summer days and sun kissed skin! The thing is, why wait for Summer to achieve a bronzed goddess look?! If you know me, you know i'm quite impatient so i bit the bullet! Though i will say, it took me some time to do so partly because i have so much makeup and wondered how this palette differed from any of my other palettes. Then it dawned on me... this could easily be way more than just a cheek palette! Hear me out...

When i dig deep into eye shadow shades i reach for, they are essentially right here in this palette. So i justified my purchase with the hopes of challenging myself to use this as more than just a cheek palette. Wow, was this palette ever so worth every penny! I kid you not, i purchased it on January 16th and have yet to put it down. It has simplified my daily makeup routine so so much! I use it on cheeks, highlight and eyes! I love swiping the highlight shade across my lids and brow bone while contouring the rest of my eyes with the bronzing shade. Additionally, i use the bronzer on the hollows of my cheeks, forehead and anywhere i want to look sun kissed. I dab a little highlight on the highs of my cheeks and cupid's bow. The top right cream shade i use as a topper on the apples of my cheeks. My least used shade is the upper left cream pan. It's pretty but i just don't reach for it that much if i'm being honest. The palette is pigmented, blends seamlessly and wears so well.

The Tom Ford Soleil Neige Highlighter and Blush Glow Stick in the shade Natural Finish are the perfect compliment to this palette. The creamy corally shade in the Glow Stick adds such a pretty flush of color to the apple of the cheeks. The application is truly flawless and a tiny bit goes a long way so you won't need to worry about running out any time soon! This has been my every single day go-to situation for over a month and i'm loving the ease of it all. It truly is an effortlessly beautiful pairing!

Below are both the Natasha Denona Palette and Tom Ford Glow Stick swatched together!

If you're a busy mom, or just don't want to spent a ton of time fussing over your makeup, this palette is going to work beautifully to ensure you look your best without much fuss. Additionally, it makes a great travel companion! I have no doubt that this will be my go-to situation for my next travel adventure!

If you pick this up, let me know your thoughts! I hope you love it as much as i do! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

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Struggling...

2020-02-23T10:57:00.000-05:00

(Picture of the sun setting in the mediterranean from our vacation last year)

I've been holding so much in and honestly, i'm really struggling. I consider myself a relatively positive person and when i'm down, i typically look for an opportunity for a fresh start. But lately, i can't get past the feeling that i have nothing good to look forward to. While i'm quite aware that this is not exactly true, my brain is stuck in that dark place where i can't see past all the struggles that await me. It torments me every waking moment. Mia's upcoming surgery is obviously a major part of why i'm feeling so scared and overwhelmed, naturally... but that's not where the struggle ends. Work has been incredibly stressful and i'm finding it difficult to navigate through my days while holding on to every ounce of strength and patience to get through the evenings with my girls. They both have issues that make time at home challenging. I don't really want to dip too deep into those issue here, publicly, but every waking minute is a struggle of some sort. I'm physically and emotionally drained. I honestly want to move past this and see the light but right now, it's dim.

It's funny but every year i feel as though we kind of go through the same changes from Fall and all things pumpkin spice, to the holidays and Winter cozies! As we gear up for Spring, i'm typically vacation shopping allowing for something incredible to look forward to come Summer. Lawd knows i need a vacation more than anything right now, but this year is going to be a bit different. We can't really commit to summer plans with Mia's surgery and recovery. It's ok... but i'm longing for some alone time at a beach somewhere and was hoping to squeeze in a quick trip with hubs before the summer for my own personal mental sanity. I know it would not take away any of my anguish or fear, but perhaps would allow me some space to breathe deep and relax. Not sure this is going to happen and i can't help but feel as though there is nothing to look forward to right now... not even a small thread. I hate that i feel this way because i'm being a brat! It's not about me, it's about my child! But if i'm falling apart, who is going to look out for her and take care of her? I literally can't hold my shit together right now!

(Picture of the sun rise in Sorrento Italy from our vacation last Summer)

Everytime i think about a way to lift myself up from this deep dark hole i'm in, i get a little nudge to write things down. I'm drawn to making some sort of list of all the areas of my life that don't feel quite right, and write down ways that could perhaps help me navigate and sort through those unsettled areas. Perhaps this is my way of gaining back some control of my life. However, my brain is in such a fog that i stare at my three notebooks and four pens with nothing to write. No clarity, no direction and no focus. There are so many things that i can't bring myself to just start. So i figured i would come here... the little space i created for myself many years ago. The space that i dedicated to my passions... only lately, i'm pouring out my heart to this little space because that's all i can do. The creativity will come once i sort through this, but until then, i felt compelled to write this here. Maybe there is someone out there that needs to read this for some reason because they're experiencing their own struggles. If you are, please know that you are not alone. I'm struggling too. Right now things feel dark and gloomy. I'm hoping for better days ahead. Writing my feelings here may be a wonderful tool to help me along my journey to finding that glimmer of light i'm oh so longing for.

Thank you so much for reading... i hope you are well. Xo, Carla - FMM

The Only Two Products You Need To Brighten Your Under-Eyes And Fake A Good Night Sleep!

2020-02-10T19:04:00.001-05:00

Since its release, Tarte's Shape Tape has been my go-to for concealing my dark, under eye circles! Now this is a serious task for this busy mommy! After all, i spend my days teaching little ones and my nights taming my twinadoes so needless to say, i need to enlist the right 'gal' for the job of faking a good night's sleep. She needs to be strong, she needs to perform under pressure and most importantly, she needs to show longevity! This powerhouse was love at first swipe! From the convenient wand applicator to the texture and formula, Shape Tape takes its job of seamlessly concealing those dreaded under eye circles quite seriously! The formula isn't too thick (which i appreciate) but definitely feels substantial and a little goes a long way. I like to blend mine in with a beauty sponge along the under-eye area as well as any areas that need a little extra coverage. The wand applicator makes it so easy to swipe and blend. I love it so much that i have yet to stray since its release a few years back!

Enter Tarte's Shape Tape Glow Wand... or shall i say, MAGIC WAND! No seriously, hear me out! My sweet friends at Tarte invited me to the launch event (and graciously allowed me to bring my mommy who was in pure Tarte heaven!) where we got the opportunity to try the Glow Wand before its release to the public. When the Tarte Global Artist swiped this beauty on the highs of my cheeks i nearly gasped with excitement! This wasn't your typical highlighter! You can essentially use it as such, but when layered over your Shape Tape Concealer, it's literally magic! It brightens your under eye area with a beautiful lit-from-within glow without any glitter! I love to not only layer it in the under eye area but also the inner corners of my nose blended into my cheeks (looks so good once you top it with your favorite blush), the highs of my cheeks and cupid's bow! The Glow Wand is your quintessential 'cherry on top' situation! It just adds that extra something that everyone will notice but will not be able to pinpoint if that makes any sense! Noteworthy... the Glow Wand comes with a removable tiny beauty sponge applicator for your convenience. You can also use a brush or beauty sponge to tap it on.

While Shape Tape concealer has been a permanent fixture on my vanity for a few years now, Shape Tape Glow Wand has officially earned prime real estate along side my trusted concealer. Alone they're amazing, together they are MAGIC! One a last note, while i absolutely adore these products and wear them daily, i strongly believe that great skin begins with a proper regimen. The Tarte Maracuja C-Brightener Eye Treatment is my current favorite under eye cream. I've already gone through four containers of this stuff and swear by it. It brightens and has a beautiful silky texture that feels incredible on the delicate skin under the eyes.

I wanted to alert you of an awesome deal currently happening at QVC on this incredible deal! You can purchase the Shape Tape Concealer together with the Shape Tape Glow Wand as well as a beauty sponge for only $35! You can even opt for easy pay for three payments of under $12! I personally think this is the most incredible deal! If you prefer, you can purchase each of these separately at Tarte or Ulta! One thing is for sure, they are life changing! If you try them, let me know what you think! Thank you so much for reading! Xoxo, Carla - FMM

HAPPY SHOPPING!

*This post contains some press samples and affiliate links. It also contains products i purchase myself. All products mentioned were tested and currently loved by me!

Life Update... Where Do We Go From Here?

2020-01-23T20:07:00.000-05:00

Let me preface by saying that i began writing this post in late October hence the Fall photos! So needless to say, this post has been a long time coming yet at the time i began writing, i simply wasn't ready to truly post it. Fast forward to now....

You may or may not have noticed my absence on this creative platform I created over the past 8 or so years. I have honestly been feeling so foggy and run down which has made me feel completely uninspired and frustrated really! I've worked so hard on FMM over the years from conceptualizing creative ideas to showcasing beauty and fashion, photographing, editing, sharing on social media and so on. For a long time, i truly enjoyed it but lately, i feel as though Instagram sort of shifted my focus a bit. I mean, out of nowhere, brand reach outs became solely about instagram versus the blog and really, it's way easier to post a single photo on instagram than all the work that goes into compiling an actual blog post. But the stress of social media is a real thing. Scrolling through my feed has me feeling a ton of emotions from high to low! Bloggers posting their seemingly perfect lives, perfect children, perfect homes, amazing vacations and dreamy wardrobes don't always make one feel inspired. In fact, it can be a real downer comparing one's success to theirs. Geez, am i that blogger? Do i make my readers/followers feel some type of way scrolling through my feed?

Additionally, instagram has been a real b*tch with engagement literally showing my photos to a mere 2-5% of my following which is upwards of 19,000! This had me questioning why all the effort, why all the stress? Posts bomb and you feel as though you are a failure. Everything I've worked so hard for is judged by this dang app and who it decides should see my photos etc. What's the big deal you may ask? Well, when brands reach out solely looking for instagram collabs, it becomes tricky because you have no control over who instagram chooses to show your hard work to leading me to essentially turn down a ton of work these past few months. I just needed to step back and re-evaluate my presence on the blog and social media.

Over the course of the past few months I've reminded myself over and over that this is not my job, this is my passion. I do not rely on the money i make on this platform to survive... thankfully! This is actually an advantage for me personally because it means that i can devote my time to my passion without having it feel like a business. I've searched long and hard within myself to find that spark that once ignited my passion for driving this blog in hopes that it slowly finds its way back to me. One thing is true, i live and breathe fashion and beauty. I literally think about shoes, bags, coats, lippies, eye shadows, highlighters all the time! They bring me happiness amidst all the stresses life brings my way. They are essentially an escape for me... they encompass who i am as a person.

Having said that, life threw me a major curve ball early last year when my twelve year-old daughter Mia was diagnosed with severe Kyphosis. We knew she had a curvature of her spine a few years prior and have been frantically trying to correct it by doing extensive physical therapy as well as wearing several brutally aggressive back braces in hopes of rectifying the situation. Sadly, her curvature is so aggressive that there is no other option than to have surgery. This will be Mia's second spinal surgery. Just before her third birthday, Mia had her tethered spinal cord released as it was attached to the base of her spine. Hearing that she needs surgery again brought back so many feelings... feelings i never wanted to revisit ever again! But alas, here we are. All of this has taken a great emotional toll on me that has been somewhat debilitating. I'm working through my anxiety as best as i can but some days, i just want to curl up in the fetal position and hide from the world. It has completely taken over my life. She will need a spinal fusion that will be approximately 7 hours long... SEVEN HOURS LONG! Seven hours of pure torture! In reality, those seven hours have actually turned into countless months of anxiety thinking about those dreaded seven hours and days, weeks and months after. Recovery will be about three months so I'm devoting this Summer to simply taking care of my baby girl and being there for her every need. I don't know what to expect other than she will need a lot of physical therapy and will probably not be very mobile. I firmly believe that God will wrap her in his wings and take good care of her. However, i can't help but feel scared and anxious... but life is such. The surgery will take place early this Summer and until then, we wait.

Where do we go from here? Well, i think giving myself this time off to re-evaluate things has been somewhat therapeutic! It's allowed me time to miss my sweet little creative outlet. I miss chatting beauty and fashion. I miss photographing, editing etc. I remember the day i decided to start Fashion Maven... Mommy, i was so excited for all the possibilities. I felt like i could finally exhale because i had found my creative outlet... a platform to showcase all the things I'm passionate about! Truth is, these past few weeks have me longing to be back. I've never been fully ready to give it up and i think now more than ever, i need my blog to help me through these dark hours. So here's the thing, I'm going to start posting again! I'm not going to stick to a schedule of any kind. I'm simply going post what feels right when it feels right. I have no doubt as my loyal readers that you would prefer me writing genuine posts than posting just to post, amiright? Also, i typically post about fashion and beauty but i think i may share a bit of my upcoming experience with you all as well. Perhaps it may help someone going through something similar or simply help me navigate through these trials and tribulations of motherhood! I hope that's cool with you! Either way, i have given my blog a fresh new look (did you notice??) and am excited to continue on this beautiful journey that began so full of hope 9 years ago! If you're still reading, dang it i love you! Thank you so much for your continued support and stay tuned!

Xo, Carla - FMM

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Covergirl NEW TruBlend Undercover Concealer and MORE!

2019-08-08T10:36:00.001-04:00

As a busy mommy of twins, concealer is one of my most reached for makeup products. And listen, concealing my under eye circles is no easy feat! Many have tried and failed and only a very select few have made the cut. In fact, the two holy grail concealers currently in my stash (not drugstore btw) better make room for their new BFF! There are so many things i love about the new Covergirl TruBlend Undercover Concealer! First, i love the applicator because the wand makes it super easy to swipe and blend! The formula is velvety smooth and matte which keeps things perfectly in place. It blends seamlessly giving you the look of a 'full night sleep' even when you tossed and turned for most of the night! With this powerhouse at your side, no one will ever know! Now let's chat longevity! This concealer stayed put for HOURS! I didn't wash my face until 11:30 pm last night and quite honestly, all was still perfectly in tact! This is the first time i've had such a great experience with a drugstore concealer which is why i'm excited to shout it out here to my beauty BFFs! I always spend quite a bit on concealer and am so excited to share that if you're a budget, this is the product for you! (ps... my shade is L900).

Ok now on to the finished look! I played with some more Covergirl products (some i already owned and a few new to me)! First, i used Covergirl's TruBlend Matte Made Foundation. I tried this for the first time when it launched and fell instantly in love! I had so many of you reaching out to let me know how much you loved it too. It's a medium to full coverage matte foundation that has major lasting power. As far as drugstore is concerned, this is easily my favorite! My shade is L50.

One of my favorite products to try from this Covergirl mailing was the TruBlend Super Stunner Highlighter! Oh my GOSH it's so good!!!! In fact, i opted to wear all three shades not only as highlighter but as eyeshadow! I swept a combination of all three shades on my lids keep the lightest shade on my inner corners for a subtle brightening effect. There are three shades available (Pearl Crush, Rose Quartz and Gilded Glory) and i honestly could not decide which i love more! They're so so beautiful and add such a gorgeous glow!

I set everything in place with Covergirl Trublend Minerals powder. Also tried the Easy Breezy Brow Gel to comb my brows in place. I didn't want super structured brows and love a good brow gel to sort of comb and shape in a natural way. This stuff stays put so work quick before it sets.

Lastly, there are a few non Cover Girl products i used to complete the look! I'm obsessed with this Tarte face palette for cheeks. Also, now that my lash extensions are off, i was stoked to finally try the new Tarte Big Ego mascara and wow it did not disappoint! BTW if you subscribe to BoxyCharm you may see this beauty in there (full size too baby)!

For lips, i reached for Steve Laurant's nude lip liner in Chic (also in this month's BoxyCharm), then i swept Christian Audette's Johanna lippie (the perfect nude created in collaboration with the gorgeous Beauty Professor), topped with Tarte's Busy Gal Gloss in 9-5!

OK so this is the full look! Major love for all the products working seamlessly on my face! Thank you Covergirl for introducing me to my new favorite drugstore concealer and highlighters which have officially earned prime real estate in my rotating makeup stash! Also, guys my lashes..... uhhhh Tarte, this mascara is SOLID!

Thank you so much for reading! Please know that while some of these products were sent for PR consideration, as always these are my true opinions based on my experience with the products sent as well as those i've purchased myself. Xo, Carla

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Trending Hair Accessories

2019-08-01T12:38:00.000-04:00

Headbands and hair clips are all the rage and honestly, THANK THE LAWD! You see, i have been rebuilding my hair these past few months from all the damage of going platinum last Summer! Literally, the entire crown of my head including my bangs just fell off! So thank goodness for the major hair accessory trend happening right now! Gimme all the cute headbands and hair clips because they've made it so much easier to get through that awkward stage of growing out my hair!

OK so even if your hair is perfectly healthy, there is nothing better than sweeping a beautiful headband on and boom, your look is instantly elevated! The great thing is that you don't have to break the bank when it comes to stocking up on cute hair accessories. I recall falling madly in love with a velvet, pearl embellished headband that cost upwards of $150! What?! Well, i scored a similar version for pennies and have since added a few more colors to my collection!

I've been having so much fun with hair clips as well. The thing is you can wear one or 5 all at once and still look super cute! It's all about your personal style and what works for you! I say experiment and have fun with this trend! From designer clips to super affordable options, the possibilities are endless! Here's a fun tip, find an online vendor that personalized hair clips (like my FMM clip that stands for Fashion Maven Mommy) and you can easily create a luxe clip without the fancy designer prices. Think Chanel, Dior, Fendi etc.... these clips can be personalized to say whatever you want them to so go for it!

Overall, I'm here for this hair accessory trend and wanted to share with you some of the pieces that have been bringing me joy! These are the accessories that have been truly facilitating my daily life and elevating my looks!

Thank you so much for reading and HAPPY SHOPPING!

Shop my favorite hair accessories below!

Sephora Beauty Insider Event! My Picks!

2019-04-27T23:09:00.000-04:00

It's Sephora's Beauty Insider Event and i am here to share some of my favorite Sephora picks! Listen, it's super easy to get lost in these sales and end up shopping mindlessly. Believe, i've done this many times! This time, i am going to focus on items that i personally own, love and need to replenish! However, in addition to showing you my purchases, i wanted to highlight some products that i consider this my everyday go-to situations! These are products i wear daily and have purchased over and over again therefore i can easily vouch for their effectiveness and overall performance!

Let's start with what i purchased thus far! My absolute favorite fragrance is this one! I'm a huge fan of Neroli and it's sort of become tradition for me to repurchase a bottle every time Sephora has this event because why pay full price. It literally smells like Summer beach days in Capri (I'm not quite sure what that means but in essence that's what this fragrance makes me feel like every time i wear it).

So here's the thing, i like to invest in my hair, particularly because my hair is in bad shape from
excessive heat paired with going platinum last year! One thing i learned is that if you bleach in your hair in any way, OLAPLEX is your bff! This is essentially how celebs can switch up from dark to blonde constantly without major damage! I currently have the shampoo, conditioner, the N.3 Hair Protector which is a concentrated treatment that strengthens the hair from within, reducing breakage and improving its look and feel. I use this before coloring and every other week. Lastly, i love the N. 6 Bond Smoother Leave In Conditioner! These products are incredible for your hair! My hair stylist has been using OLAPLEX on my hair for quite some time so i was thrilled when i learned they're finally available to non professionals! I re-ordered another N.3 because i was running low!

Next, the other hair care brand that i've loved for YEARS and will forever be loyal to is Alterna! I am LOVING the bonding collection and it's one that seems to be instrumental in helping to rebuild my hair from all the damage i caused it. I'm running super low on the Smoothing Anti-Frizz Oil Mist that's blended with omega oils to add shine while taming frizz. Also super important to me, this product protects hair up to 450 degrees! I have purchased this three times and just ordered my 4th! This product is a bit pricey so this is the perfect time to stock up! A little goes a long way. It does last me for quite a while and i try to order this every time Sephora has this event! The last product i ordered so far (yes, there may be more but i can only chat about what i've already ordered) is Ouai Memory Mist... a favorite of mine! I've been using this for a while and love a few things about it. First, it's a great product to apply to the hair while styling because it really helps the hair maintain it's shape for hours. Additionally, it protects from heat which is essential to me as well since i do blow dry my hair and occasionally use a curling wand. I included a couple of other products that i really love in this photo though i have not reordered only because they're still relatively full and i use such a tiny amount that i think these will last me for a few months. Basically i love the Alterna Anti-Aging Caviar Reconstructing Bond Repair Leave-In Heat Protection Spray! This stuff is a must for me right now for a multitude of reasons but i love that it makes my hair feel soft and manageable as well as protected from heat. As you can see, i learned my lesson BIG TIME and make sure all products i use have heat protection.

Ahhh now on to my favorite topic... makeup! So to be clear, i am not purchasing any of these items for this sale simply because i have plenty of product left with the exception of the Erborian CC Cream. However, i purchased a backup during the last Sephora event sale so i'm good! Thing is, for those of you who want makeup recommendations, i thought i'd take a peek at the products i reach for mostly every day and share those much loved products with you!

When it comes to face powders, Laura Mercier does it RIGHT! I have an obsession with both the translucent and GLOW powders, they're just so finely milled and set my makeup beautifully. As for skin products, i don't like to wear foundation on a daily basis. There are two products that i alternate and i know you've heard me talk about them over and over but being that these are permanent fixtures in my makeup routine, i feel compelled to share them again. First Aid Beauty's Tinted Moisturizer leaves the skin feeling hydrated while providing a very mild coverage. If you pair this with a good concealer (i recommend IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye) that can spot treat any blemishes or redness than you should be able to create a beautiful canvas. This concealer is powerful and packed with skin loving anti-aging ingredients, however, proceed with caution as a tiny bit goes a long way! The other skin product i'm obsessed with is the Erborian CC Cream. Now this product i use quite generously! I pack it on and it gives the skin a bit of a blur effect while providing mild coverage. Again, use your concealer to spot treat and it will achieve enough coverage for a day look. I personally prefer this over foundation for day time.

Charlotte Tilbury is one of my biggest obsessions... hello, have you seen the new GLOWGASM collection? OMG i need it stat! Ok focus Carla! A must have from this amazing brand is the Flawless Filter. If you love a glowy look then you'll want to dab this on the highs of your cheeks, cupid's bow or anywhere you want to highlight. There is no glitter here, it's simply Goddess level glow! The Light Wand is also one of my holy grail highlighter situations. Ugh so so so good! I also love this Fenty highlighter! The Cheek to Chic blushes are insanely beautiful and i can't imagine life without them! If you're looking for the perfect nude lippie, pick up Charlotte Tilbury's Bitch Perfect and be sure to line your lips with Pillow Talk. This combo is what nude lip dreams are made of! I love the Golden Goddess and Exagger Eyes Palette. I also have my eyes on Pillow Talk!

Looking for sun kissed looking skin? I have been reaching for Tarte's Hotel Heiress bronzer for months now and love the beautiful bronzy look it graces my skin with. It's a nice warm tone and i use it everyday. These mini Natasha Denona palettes are a great value at just $25 when you consider her larger palettes are in the $125 range. These are incredibly beautiful and have a great range. I own three of them and highly recommend, particularly the nude palette because it's so versatile!

OK let's chat eyeliner and mascara. Urban Decay's 24-7 Glide-On Eye Liner is all i reach for every day! The formula is so creamy and easy to work with but stays put all day! I smudge some on my upper lash line and then use a flat angled brush to sweep outwards for a gorgeous cat eye without the fuss of a liquid liner! Follow this with IT Cosmetics Super Hero Mascara for beautifully coated lashes! This mascara is not only lengthening but voluminizing! It's so powerful and i always have a backup tube in my stash!

The L'aneige Lip Sleep Mask is a holy grail of mine. I keep one on my nightstand and one in my makeup pouch. I apply every night before bed and every morning when i wake up. This leaves my lips so moisturized! Lastly, i set my makeup every day with Urban Decay's All Nighter Setting Spray! I have a back up of this product as well because i love it so much. I even spray my beauty blender with it when i apply my concealer and it works like a dream!

Ok I could go on and on about makeup because there are so many products out there that i'm loving. For instance, this Natasha Denona Cheek Palette is SO GOOD... but i wanted to really focus on the products i use over and over and over again. My recommendation for shopping this sale is to restock on products you know you'll use a ton. Perhaps select an item that you're curious about in addition to your restocks for a bit of fun. You don't have to go crazy or break the bank. Really, just focus on what you truly need and think you'll use!

I hope this post helps you narrow down your choices. Rouge costumers can save 20% now with code HEYROUGE at checkout! Happy Shopping and be sure to let me know what you picked up! Xo, Carla - FMM

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Amazon Fashion & Beauty Favorites!

2019-03-26T17:17:00.000-04:00

You guys... Amazon is on FIRE! Seriously, i have been scoring some SUPER CUTE stuff which got me thinking, i need to share this with my BFFs (you)! I love being a prime member so much and take full advantage of this membership because as a busy, full-time working mommy, it's hard to find time to hit the stores sometimes and i have no doubt you can relate! I've shared a few of my Amazon finds on insta-stories and many of you loved them and suggested i write a post. So without further ado, here it is! Also note i do not work with Amazon and am not being sponsored by this post. I will always state if a post is sponsored.

Beauty

Since purchasing this game changing tool, i have bid farewell to bad hair days! In fact, i purchased it out of sheer curiosity feeling almost certain that i would be returning it. I was BLOWN AWAY pun intended! I cannot believe how freaking genius this thing is! I always had the hardest time blow drying the back of my hair because holding a dryer and brush at the same time is rough. So basically, i wound up with semi straight hair in the front and wavy/frizzy hair in the back. This product seals in the cuticle so beautifully that it literally gives you a salon blow out that lasts for days. I have basically bought one for my mom because i know how much she struggles with her hair and have told ALL MY FRIENDS about it! Many of them have purchased and the texts reading 'best $54 i've ever spent' have been countless at this point! The hype is real people! You can also purchase it here and here.

My mini beauty fridge has been a beauty game changer for me! My husband gifted me one for my birthday and i can honestly say that i look forward to my skincare routine more than ever, particularly in the morning! I keep my eye cream and a few moisturizers in there along with this Jade Roller (also an amazon find) and i LOVE how it helps to depuff the bags under my eyes every morning. There's no better feeling than those few minutes i take to massage my eye cream and moisturizer into my skin with my cooled Jade Roller in the morning. It literally minimized any swelling or puffing of the skin and feels like a mini facial! So good! Also, i love placing sheet masks in my beauty fridge. Feels so good to apply them when they're nice and cool!

As mentioned above, this is one of those gadgets that i simply wouldn't ever want to be without! It will leave your skin feeling plump, helps to work your skincare into the skin and just feels amazing. I gave one to my mom for Christmas and she raves about it! It's super affordable and well worth it!

This is perhaps one of my absolute FAVORITE brands of nail polish! I apply every sunday night and lasts all week! I'm currently wearing the shade 'Got Myself Into a Jam-Balaya' and it's Spring perfection!

This hand lotion and cuticle cream is ALWAYS on my nightstand because it not only keeps my hands super hydrated but it smells uhhhhmazing! I love falling asleep to the delicious smell of lemon and sage... it's so therapeutic and relaxing. It's also my daughter Mia's favorite... every night she sneaks into my room and asks to use it. How could i resist! I also bought the body lotion version and it's delicious!

On that note i have to say that Bliss sent over this mask for me to try and OH EM GEEEE it's sooooo good!!! I've used it every single week for the past couple of months and my skin is obsessed with it and for $15, you'll get a ton of uses without breaking the bank!

This is HANDS DOWN my favorite lip mask ever! I keep one on my nightstand and one in my makeup pouch! Everyone in my house (hubs included) love it so much. Swipe this on your lips at night and you'll wake up with super soft, smooth lips!

Fashion

When i shared this bag on insta-stories, you guys went CRAZY for it and for good reason! For under $33, this bag looks like it cost well over 1k and is quite functional! I have been wearing it every day and get a ton of compliments on it. The quality is excellent and the hardware is sturdy and luxurious. I also love the accordion style because it allows me to separate items by category. For instance, i have my wallet and keys in one compartment, My lippies, mirror and gum in another and so on. I also love that it's crossbody because it allows me the freedom to be hands-free which i love for an everyday bag!

Speaking of bags, omg Amazon has some seriously gorgeous options and i am beginning to think i may have a problem restraining myself from buying them all! I recently bought this one because it looks like the way more expensive version at a fraction of the cost. It's such a fun bag for Spring and Summer and to be quite honest, this is not the type of bag that i would invest a ton of money into! Amazon really came through for me here! So i actually bought the full price version (though i just noticed it's currently majorly discounted and clearly i paid TOO MUCH for it) of this bag and came across a look-alike here for a fraction of what i paid. Granted, i haven't seen it in the exact color of the one i own but there are certainly some really cute options here! Also, if you love the high end version of this acrylic beauty, don't miss out on this Amazon steal!

If you love straw and wicker bags for Spring and Summer, you'll love these! First, i lived in this bag last year! It's such a great bag for carrying your essentials during the warmer months. Not to mention it's so on trend right now! I also just spotted this one and am ordering it because it's SO CUTE and i love the tassel detail!

I love a good cardigan so when i spotted this one, i knew this Jersey girl needed it stat! I've been really loving it paired with leggings and short booties. It's such a great and super affordable transitional piece too!

OK you are going to LOVE me for this.... calling all my UGG lovers (or fuzzy lined boot lovers in general)! You know when you've worn your boots for months and the inner lining starts to become flat? Well, pick up a set of these inserts and you'll feel like you own a brand new pair of UGG boots! It will only set you back $10 and when you slip your foot into them you'll instantly be transported into fuzzy boot heaven! The coolest part is that you don't have to use them solely on your boots... simply put these in any shoe or sneaker that you want to feel cozy and warm! Boom... you're welcome!

Hair clips are ALL THE RAGE right now! Especially this style here! Well, when i spotted this set of three on Amazon for a mere $2.39 i figured.... can't possibly be any good! But for the price i decided that it wouldn't be a terrible loss if they weren't. Well, wow, wow, WOW! These hair clips are not only gorgeous but they're actually quite luxurious and truly secure the hair! They take about a week to arrive and they're insanely beautiful. I know a bunch of you already snagged a set when you saw mine on a recent makeup tutorial i did on insta-stories! These are an absolute must-have right now and don't bother shopping them from anywhere else because for a couple of bucks, your hair will be riding in style all season long!

This initial necklace looks so expensive and really it's only $15! Every time i wear it, i get so many compliments! It's a beautiful piece and makes such a statement... also makes a great, and super affordable gift!

These slides will instantly elevate your Spring and Summer looks! They come in a TON of colors! I'm loving the pink and camel options but really, there's an option for every style and they're so so comfy!

I'm obsessed with kimonos! I mean, they're not only perfect beach cover ups but they pair beautifully over a dress or jeans and a tank top! I have spent so much money on kimonos and recently discovered that Amazon has a ton of options! I even found an exact replica for my absolute favorite kimono in the whole wide word that i purchased from Zara for a ton of money in comparison to the Amazon version! I love this one and this one so so much!

So i just placed a large order of dresses for summer! I'm looking to pair cute, comfortable styles with cozy white sneakers or comfy slides for my upcoming trip to europe and think these options are fun without breaking the bank. Please note that these have not arrived in the mail yet but i will report on them as soon as i get them. I figured i'd link them here in case you're looking for something similar! I purchased this one in yellow and also in black because it looks perfect for sightseeing! I also purchased this one and think it will look SO CUTE with some of the bags i chatted about! I had this one in my shopping cart for quite some time and decided it was time. My inner bohemian child is screaming with excitement and keeping all limbs crossed that it fits and looks good! Also couldn't resist this gorgeous boho top! Kind of wishing i had ordered this one because it's so beautiful!

I have these slides and lived in them last year! The only thing i'll say is size down at least half a size. The rose gold is such a great neutral and literally pairs well with everything! I'm ordering a new pair this year simply because mine are a bit big on me and i want them a bit more snug. These are worth every penny... so so comfy and so so chic!

I have these sunnies in four different colors! I wore them so much last year! I just ordered them in tortoise and LOVE THEM! Uhhhh so so chic and under $10! I also love these large round sunnies! I know many of you loved them too when i've styled them for instagram also styled them here!

Oh and if you're a Target lover (i mean, who isn't) then this mug is for you! My sweet friend Nicole gifted me this for my birthday and i truly love it so much!

OK so i have a ton more to share but i think that's quite enough for one post, no? I'm thinking of putting a post together on useful gadgets or keto items that i frequently order from Amazon. Would that interest you? Either let me know in the comments or reach out on instagram! I truly hope you find some gems in this post! Let me know if anything sparked your interest!

Thank you SO MUCH for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

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IT's All About You, IT Cosmetics TSV

2019-03-05T21:29:00.000-05:00

Hey IT Girls, IT's All About You! Your Customer Favorites Collection celebrates products that are truly life-changing for IT Girls everywhere! This Today’s Special Value is scheduled to debut on QVC Saturday, March 9, 2019 at midnight (ET) and will be offered for one day only! Lucky for you, this gorgeous set is currently available for PRESALE! Snatch yours up now to ensure you have first dibs on this amazing deal!

This exclusive four-piece collection features a NEW! brow-transforming essential, a lip-loving favorite in a new shade (Honey), an illuminating complexion must-have in new shades—plus a perfectly paired brush! First, create the look of your fullest, most natural-looking brows with the NEW! Brow PowerFULL Universal Voluminzing Eyebrow Pencil. Use your included Heavenly Skin CC+ Skin-Perfecting Brush No. 702 to flawlessly apply your Supersize CC+ Cream Illumination with SPF 50+, then apply your NEW SHADE! of Je Ne Sais Quoi all over your lips for your most beautiful finish.

Be sure to secure yours by taking advantage of the presale currently happening on QVC! Enjoy!

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

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Makeup Fridge! Beauty Game Changer!

2019-02-18T16:33:00.000-05:00

When i first spotted this pretty little makeup fridge i thought... wow, brilliant concept! I mean, for years I've been tossing my eye creams and jade roller in my giant fridge next to the milk and eggs. Seriously not at all glamourous but i simply love the depuffing action that my skin looks forward to every single morning! Have you ever applied an eye balm or moisturizer straight out of the fridge? Or a jade roller for that matter? It's heaven... like a venti cup of the most palatable coffee for your skin!

So this year, my sweet hubby gifted me this beauty for my birthday! I nearly squealed with excitement when it arrived and quickly put it to the test! Oh my LAWD it's uhhhhmazing and oh so cute! It comes in a few colors but i opted for pink because it's so delicate and feminine! I keep it on the nightstand of my guest room which i also use as an office/beauty room! It's the perfect addition and since it's where i get ready every morning, i love that i can easily reach for my morning skincare just before applying my makeup. This beauty keeps products just cold enough without overdoing it. It's quite gentle! It comes with a removable shelf which is nice because there are certain products that will not fit if the shelf is in place so i sometimes remove it to suit them. It has a handle that makes it portable (pssst... you can even use it in your car to keep your drinks cool if you're on the road). This beauty is quite the little multi-tasker and i for one am obsessed!

Hubs purchased this one here but there are a ton of options out there! I found some adorable ones for half the price! Either way, i think the overall concept is brilliant and i strongly recommend you snatch up one of these cuties. Your skin will thank you for it!

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla

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Your Valentine's Day Lippie Covered!

2019-02-10T21:42:00.000-05:00

I was recently introduced to the Christian Audette brand when one of my favorite beauty bloggers Rachel of the Beauty Professor collaborated on a insanely gorgeous lipstick set (read my full review here). I fell madly for this insanely creamy formula that reminded me so much of my Tom Ford satin lippies for a fraction of the price!

My friends at Christian Audette sent over their CEO collection to play with and wow WOW! From packaging to formula, I'm seriously not sure you'll find a more luxurious wear. These babies are a one swipe and done situation. These lippies are so rich and creamy and have a suede finish that is truly long lasting but most importantly, they provide a super comfortable wear! The color selection feels as though it was curated with me in mind (let's just go with that because a girl can dream...) but really, i love the peachy pink nudes but can never resist a good bold red! These are the perfect lippies for Valentine's Day! Madame CEO is a must have... it's a true classic red that packs on the drama! Pair it with a good coat of mascara and let this beauty shine! It's a show stopper!

I promise you need these and i promise you will NOT be disappointed! I wore Madame CEO this past weekend for a girls' night out and received a ton of compliments! No doubt you will too! You can purchase this collection here!

Wearing Madame CEO

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

IT Cosmetics New Year, Your Most Beautiful Skin QVC TSV

2019-01-11T20:41:00.003-05:00

Hey there IT Girls! Don't you just love getting all your favorite IT products for a major deal? Well, it's QVC's TSV time again and you're not going to want to miss this one! The IT Cosmetics’ New Year, Your Most Beautiful Skin! 4-Piece Skincare & Complexion Collection gives you the power to reveal your most beautiful skin! This Today’s Special Value will only be offered for one day only! As a reminder, each day, QVC picks one special item they believe shoppers will love, and offers it at an exceptionally low price from midnight (ET) until 11:59 p.m. (PT) that day.

This exclusive four-piece collection features the worldwide launch of two new confidence-boosting skincare essentials and one new complexion must-have—plus a perfectly paired brush! Prep your skin for makeup application with new Confidence in a Gel Lotion to hydrate and smooth the look of fine lines. Then, apply new Confidence in a Neck Cream to your neck, décolleté and chest for an instantly younger-looking appearance. Use your included Heavenly Luxe Plush Paddle Foundation Brush to apply Bye Bye Lines Foundation for your most skin-perfecting finish!

Admittedly, IT Cosmetics is a brand that has earned prime real estate on my vanity as well as my night stand! I couldn't be more thrilled that they introduced the new Confidence in a Neck Cream! Seriously, so stoked to try this! Also, the foundation is beautiful and what better to apply it with than a luxurious IT brush! IT Cosmetics brushes (along with their complexion products and skincare) are an absolute must-have! Don't miss out on this ONE DAY ONLY deal happening right now for only $69.96 OR you can simply opt for 6 easy payments of $11.66! I love that QVC allows you to do this! Treat yourself to your best skin this year! You can purchase this amazing deal here!

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*press sample - all opinions are my own.

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Urban Decay On The Run Mini Palettes

2019-01-06T20:32:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year's Dolls! So excited to ring in the new year with a fun little Urban Decay post! I've been a collector of all Urban Decay NAKED palettes since they first launched. There's just something about them that makes them feel so special. When UD recently launched three On The Run Mini Palettes, i seriously could not wait to dig in! Each palette has a specific color theme and has a good mixture of mattes and shimmers which i personally love. When i first swatched these, i ooooh'd and ahhhh'd with excitement. The pigmentation is real and i swear, as i swiped each shade on my arm i felt as though i was in for a little surprised. Certain shades are predictable but others have a little something extra that happens when you swatch! Seriously, these are very pretty palettes!

The packaging is cardboard and each of these palettes includes a blend of eight mattes and shimmers. There are three palettes, Bailout (purple hues), Shortcut (stunning burgundy/wine shades), and Detour (blue hues). I will show you each in more depth.

Bailout

I love the neutrals in this palette because they make the purple shade a lot more wearable! Vice is a beautiful shade and I'm typically not a fan of purple! Pickup is one of those shades that has such a gorgeous sheen and looks amazing on the inner corners of your eyes paired with Vice!

Shortcut

This is perhaps the palette that most resonates with my typical, everyday go-to colors! Zone broke slightly during shipping but it's still completely usable. Shortcut is easily my favorite crease shade. It's beautiful and universally flattering! Zone is such a beautiful shimmer, it looks stunning swiped across the lids. I love to add Sin to the inner corner of my eyes.

Detour

This palette is a GEM! Oh my gosh i can't say that enough! First, Plunge is a GORGEOUS shade! I love to sweep it across the lid for a deep, smokey eye paired with a nude lip. Confidential, Detour and Escape are beautiful crease shades that can be layered. Remember i spoke of some shades being a bit of a surprise? Well, at first glance, Switchback looks like a very light, almost white shimmery shade. Well, it swatches SO beautifully with a hint of icy pale blue shimmer! It's spectacular truly! I also LOVE the matte white shade as a brow highlight! Overall, obsessed with this beauty!

These palettes are relatively affordable at $25 each. Anyone of these (or all) make a beautiful addition to anyone's makeup stash. Well worth the money! Be sure to also stock up on Urban Decay's All Nighter Setting Spray! If you haven't tried it yet, you must! This has been my go-to for years!!!!! I can't even count the number of bottles i have purchased because i adore it! You can purchase these beauties here and here!

I have no doubt that you will love these as much as i do! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*press sample - all opinions are my own based on my experience with these products.

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Microblading Part 2

2018-12-16T21:20:00.006-05:00

I'm back to chat a little bit more about my microblading experience! To read part one, be sure to click here where i detail everything about microblading! I also answered a ton of questions that many of you left for me on instagram! To back track a bit, i had microblading done this past Summer with Jennifer Boccongelli at Dr. Jeffrey B. Wise's office in Wayne N.J. This was my very first time getting microbladed and i was quite nervous about the whole experience to say the least. I will say that i have learned so much throughout this process and I'm so happy to share it all with you! Microblading typically involves two sessions. The initial session gives you instant gorgeous brows. However, it's a process. First, the brows begin to scab and then the scabbing flakes off over the course of the following week. It is recommended that you go in for your touch-up six weeks after the initial session. This allows your brows time to fully heal. At this point, the technician is able to fill in any spots that may have dulled a bit and simply perfect the job. Once the second session is done, you'll need to patiently wait another 4-6 weeks to truly see the end result.

Jennifer openly mentioned during my first session that it would be a solid couple of months before we could really see what my brows would look like. Ahhh seems like a lifetime away but i promise, the time flies by! As mentioned previously, i have learned so much throughout this process! One thing that i strongly suggest is to ask your Microblading Specialist if touch ups are included in the overall cost. Remember, you typically need one touch up there are situations where some may need a second or even third touch up to achieve the desired brow look. So it it obviously important to find out ahead of time how much the overall cost may potentially be. I can't say enough about Jennifer's patience and kindness with this entire process. She makes me feel so at ease and always reassures me that if i need a second touch-up, she is happy to do it! That is indicative of a true professional who respects her craft.

Interestingly enough, my brows haven't been the easiest to take to microblading. Once the scabbing phase is complete, I'm left with a beautiful shape but there are definitely some faded spots. Don't get me wrong, if you see my initial 'before' picture, my brows have come a LONG way! I no longer fill them in on a regular basis, only when i have a special event to go to. Having said that, i am going in for my third touch up this week and am keeping my fingers crossed that this is the final time. Jennifer mentioned that some people need a third touch up and i simply happen to be one of them.

It's been a couple of months since my last touch-up and due to my travel schedule and a major snow storm that impacted the entire tri-state area, i finally made it to my second touch up! As always, Jennifer greeted me with her warm, familiar smile. She took the time to answer a few more questions while my brows sat with numbing cream. Going into this initially, i never gave much thought to the possibility that my brows would fade so easily. I simply assume after my touch up, they would be set for a while. Since that wasn't the case, i wanted to pick Jennifer's brain about why this happened and what other options are available for clients like myself who simply have a difficult time holding the pigment. It all basically comes down to oiliness. While i have combination skin, i wear glasses and tend to build a ton of oil in my T zone! I have no doubt that this played a major role in this process. You see, the first week, it is imperative that you keep the brows dry at all times (yes, showering is an interesting task, particularly in scuba glasses... don't judge!). However, thinking back to the time of year that i had my first and second session (late July and late August), the humidity levels were super high and it was quite challenging to keep the oils away. Parting ways with my glasses was obviously not an option but at the time, i didn't realize that this may be impacting my microblading results. If you're extremely oily, note that microblading may not be your best option. But fret not, you have another option that will work best for your skin type! Powder Brows or Permanent Makeup may be best suited for you (Jennifer also provides this service).

Getting back to my situations with my glasses, i asked her what i could do in the meantime to ensure that i have better success with the results. Obviously the weather is much cooler so i have that in my favor (phew), but i still struggle with the oil built up throughout the day. SHE GAVE ME A WONDERFUL TIP THAT I SERIOUSLY NEVER THOUGHT OF AND IT'S KIND OF BRILLIANT!!!! Use blotting paper to blot the eyebrows a couple of times a day!!! What?! So doable and kind of genius! Why didn't i think of this before! She likes to use the NYX blotting sheets (super affordable option) and I've been a fan of the Tacha blotting sheets for quite some time and will surely put them to good use.

For my second session, Jennifer combined microblading with powder brows. I will say that this session resulted in my favorite overall shape! They're slightly thinner than previous sessions which may work best for me in terms of longevity and the shape is perfection! I am going to take every precaution (hello blotting sheets and scuba goggles) during the first week to ensure the best possible results. I will update this post in about a month with a final photo detailing what my brows look like once the healing process is complete.

Before and after my second touch up!

Would i do this again knowing that i might need extra touch ups? Absolutely! Regardless of the slight fading in certain spots which the third touch-up should easily take care of, it's SO NICE to not have to fill in my brows everyday! I mean, brows are time consuming and really, 'ain't nobody got time' amiright?! If you are in New Jersey, please consider Jennifer at Dr. Wise's office for your microblading needs. She is truly a perfectionist and i am so pleased to have found her. The office staff is incredibly courteous, the microblading room is nice and relaxing (think comfy bed, soft music in the background, etc.), and Jennifer is a gem! She is so patient, answered all of my questions without making me feel rushed and truly reassured me that all would be OK and that she would touch up my brows until they felt right. I highly, highly recommend this place!

Obsessed with my brows!

I will update this post to reflect the results of my touch-up in a few weeks! Until then, be sure to check out part 1 of my microblading post if you are considering microblading or powder brows! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*This service was complimentary however all opinions are my own based on my own experience.

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Favorite Holiday Beauty Gift Sets!

2018-12-06T22:21:00.003-05:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year! You know... that time when beauty brands release gorgeous holiday gift sets that make it oh so difficult to resist not only buying for your bestie but picking a few out for yourself because treat yo' self! However, narrowing down your choices among the massive sea of options can be quite difficult so I'm here to share a few that I'm currently loving!

Laura Geller always wows in the gift set department! From the swoon worthy baked gelato highlighters to the gilded honey illuminating body mist, there is always something special for everyone to enjoy! These sweet little gift sets will WOW the beauty lover in your life and best part? They won't break the bank! The Illuminating body mist is truly special... it has a beautiful light shimmer and smells delicious! The highlighters are dreamy and i LOVE the budge free eye liners! Don't miss out on these gorgeous sets!

Charlotte Tilbury is easily my favorite luxury beauty brand! You guys... the Party Girl Kit is DREAMY! It features some of my absolute favorites from the brand including the Lip Cheat lip liner in Pillow Talk (my go-to nude liner because i personally consider this the most beautiful lip liner ever)! This kit is also a super fun way to try products from the collection like the mascara and liners! It's seriously hard not to fall madly in love with CT because every single product is impeccably packages and applies like a dream! Oh and you'll want to snatch this quick because it already sold out at Sephora and Charlotte Tilbury but i found it here!

The Charlotte Tilbury love doesn't end with the Party Girl Kit! The Luxury Palette of Pops (Starlight) eyeshadow palette is holiday perfection! It features a gorgeous medley of shimmers to create a plethora of swoon worthy looks. I'm also living for the CT Superstar Lips! They're so creamy and pigmented. I'm especially loving the shade Pillow Talk!

Tarte went tropical for their holiday sets and I'm totally digging it! I mean, who doesn't want a gold pineapple shaped lash curler packaged with the most amazing Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara amiright?! For the girl who loves to create the perfect cat eye, gift her Tarte's Dream Team Liner Trio because the brush is so precise that it's almost fool proof! If you're a fan of Tarte's Amazonian Clay blushes you will be over-the-moon for the Flushed and Fabulous Deluxe Amazonian Clay Blush Set! Besides being beautifully pigmented and long wearing, the packaging is next level gorgeous! The Lip Sculptor is one of my favorite Tarte lippies and this Flawless Foursome Lip Sculptor set features the prettiest (universally flattering) nudes! The packaging makes these beauties even more appealing!

You have heard me brag about how i rebuilt my lashes using Grande Lash serum in this post... well check out this amazing value! This Grande Lash MD holiday gift is a six month supply! What?! Yes, please! I mean... what better gift than long, luscious lashes!

I started using two of the three Dr. Hauschka products in this gift set and have fallen madly in love! The toner and rose day cream and two products i seriously look forward to applying everyday! This is an incredible value for the price point of only $35! If you don't gift this to a friend, do your skin a favor and pick it up for yourself! I have no doubt that you will love these products as much as i do! I also love the packaging!

It was definitely difficult narrowing down favorite gift sets but these are at the top of my list! I hope this helps you check off a few people off of your list! Happy shopping and thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*some products were sent for consideration and others purchased by me. All opinions are my own.

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Black Friday/Cyber Week Deals and Coupon Codes!

2018-11-22T22:16:00.002-05:00

This is easily my favorite four day weekend of the entire YEAR! Thanksgiving is such a special time to not only reflect on all the wonderful blessings in our lives but to make beautiful memories with the family. Every year is filled with time spent in the kitchen (a task i truly enjoy), decorating the tree the day after Thanksgiving and of course SHOPPING! I have never been one to step foot in a store on Black Friday because i don't do well with crowds but seriously, the online deals are just as good! Besides, there is nothing better than fixing myself a nice hot cup of coffee, turning on the fireplace and shopping online in the comfort of my oh so cozy pajamas I've rounded off some amazing deals happening right now and will be sure to continue to update this post as new deals come in! I am on a mission to finish my holiday shopping this weekend! How about you?

Abercrombie & Fitch: 50% off everything + free shipping

Aerie - 40% off Aerie collection plus free shipping

Amazon - $5 off book purchase of $20 or more with code NOVBOOK18 plus TONS of doorbuster sales.

American Eagle: 40% off everything + free shipping

Ann Taylor: 50% off everything. Use code BLACKFRIDAY.

Anthropologie: 30% off everything! No code necessary!

ASOS - 25% off with code EPIC25

Banana Republic: 50% off regular-priced items. Extra 10% off when you use your Gap Inc card. Use code BRCARD.

Bed, Bath, & Beyond: Steals & deals throughout the site.

Bloomingdale’s: Take $25 off every $200 you spend (on items labeled Take $25 off)

Bobbi Brown: 25% off your order + a full-size gift. Use code BFGIFT.

CB2: 15% off full-price items. Use code SAVE15.

Charlotte Tilbury - Up to 50% off select products.

Crate and Barrel: 20% off

Express: 50% off everything + free shipping.

Forever 21: 20% off your purchase of $100+. Use code SAVE20. Use code SAVE50 to save $50 off sale items.

Gap: 50% off everything + an extra 10% off with code TREAT.hm

H&M: Extra 25% off sale items. Use code 3236.

IT Cosmetics: 20% off sitewide with code ITFRIDAY

J. Crew: (Black Friday) 50% off your entire purchase! Use code TGIF!

40% off your purchase. Use code TOGETHER.

J. Crew Factory: 40-50% off site wide.

Kate Spade: 30% off everything. Use code GIVECHEER.

Kendra Scott: 20% off all purchases, 25% off $100+, or 30% off $200+.

Loft: 50% off your purchase. Use code THANKS.

Macy's - 25% off select doorbuster items with code BLKFRI and $10 off $25 or more with code BLKFRI25

Madewell: 25% off your purchase. Use code DEALWITHT.

Nordstrom: Up to 60% off sale items

Old Navy: 50% off entire purchase.

PB Teen: 20-75% off 1000s of items.

Pottery Barn: 25% Site wide plus free shipping! Use code THANKFUL.

QVC - Check out this AMAZING deal on my favorite Too Faced Mascara, primer and setting spray! Perfect holiday gift!

Rebecca Minkoff: 25% off orders of $100+. Use code THX25.

Sephora: Up to 50% off.

SheIn: $5 off $59+ with code BDC5, $10 off $89+ with code BDC10, or $30 off $169+ with code BDC30.

Shopb op: 15% off $200+, 20% off $500+, or 25% off $800+. Use code MORE18.

Target: New deals continuously being added.

Tarte: 25% off new arrivals. Use code VIP25.

Too Faced: 30% off site wide. Use code PINK30.

Tory Burch: 30% off $250+. Use code THANKS.

ULTA: Tons of beauty buster deals!

Urban Outfitters: Buy one, get one 50% off.

Victoria's Secret - Free Ship $50 + $50 off $250

West Elm: 15% off $100+, 20% off $500, or 25% off $1,000+. Use code SAVEMORE.

Williams Sonoma: 20% off your order + free fast shipping. Use code THANKS.

World Market: Save up to 40% on all furniture. Use code FURNDEAL.

Thank you so much for reading and HAPPY SHOPPING!!! Xo, Carla - FMM

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Christian Audette X Beauty Professor

2018-11-20T19:47:00.000-05:00

It brings me great joy to share the new of this amazing collaboration! One of my absolute favorite beauty bloggers, Rachel Anise of the Beauty Professor has teamed up with Christian Audette to create three stunning lipsticks. Admittedly, the brand Christian Audette is new to me, however, knowing Rachel's eye for luxury and quality, i was certain this launch would be a major win!

Johannah - A darling pinky nude (named after her sweet daughter) is a wonderful everyday situation!

Golightly - The perfect opaque peachy nude is one of those shades i will reach for over and over
again!

Elle - A universally flattering cool pink that is absolute perfection!

From left to right: Golightly, Elle, Johannah

The formula is creamy, beautifully pigmented and the opacity is unsurpassed! These beauties are a quick swipe and done! They're incredibly comfortable to wear and while these shades are quite perfect on their own, they also layer seamlessly! Overall, I'm beyond impressed with the shades that Rachel so delicately crafted for this trio as well as the rich, buttery formula. Equally impressive is the luxurious packaging. I love the sleek black, adorned with the Christian Audette X Beauty Professor logo. These beauties are limited edition and trust me when i tell you , you do not want to miss out on this collaboration! Pick up a set for yourself and don't forget to gift the beauty lover in your life as well! They will undoubtedly love this sweet little set! You can purchase these here!

Wearing Johannah

Wearing Golightly

Wearing Elle

I'm cheering Rachel on this amazing venture and hope that this collaboration is a major success! You'll love following along on her blog Beauty Professor! Go send her some love!

Thank you so much for reading! Xoxo, Carla - FMM

Urban Decay NAKED Cherry Collection

2018-11-13T20:50:00.005-05:00

I have been an avid collector of ALL Urban Decay NAKED palettes. There is just something so nostalgic about my collection. Each palette is a reminder of a special time in my life and i treasure each and everyone of of them. When i first laid eyes on the new NAKED Cherry palette, i was immediately drawn to the gorgeous, warm tones! They seriously scream Fall and i'm all about it. I had this palette in my virtual shopping cart awaiting the Sephora sale when it unexpectedly arrived in the mail with the entire collection. I don't think i've ever screamed so loud over a PR package before! I have been playing with this beauty and the rest of the collection since its arrival and boy, it did NOT disappoint! This palette has a nice mix of mattes and shimmers. It is very pigmented and blends like a dream. You will easily create an endless array of looks with this beauty and is worth every penny! If you get anything at all from this collection, this is certainly the hero product!

The collection features three beautiful lipsticks in Cherry (a deep, berry wine color), Juicy ( a light peachy pink with copper micro shimmer. It's so unique and wears beautifully) and Devilish ( a bright pink with micro shimmer). Cherry is a satin finish and makes a bold statement... it's so perfect for Fall! Juicy and Devilish are both shimmers and wear very comfortably.

I have collected Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils for quite some time. They apply so smoothly and are strongly pigmented... a combination i look for in an eye pencil for sure! Black Market is a rich satin black that is a must in every girl's makeup bag! I'm equally obsessed with Love Drug, a deep wine metallic that is perfect for the waterline! I definitely recommend picking up a few of these!

I love a good highlighter/blush palette. The NAKED Cherry Highlighter and Blush Palette is perfection. It features a universally flattering blush alongside two stunning highlighters! This palette packs on the glow and is the perfect finishing touch to any look!

If you ask me what my favorite setting spray is, my response without hesitation is Urban Decay's All Nighter Spray! I have two in my stash because i simply can't live without it. I initially hesitant about the idea of this being scented but truth is, it's very light and actually enjoyable! I have been using it nonstop and i LOVE the size! It's perfect for travel. In fact, i have traveled with it twice this month and it will once again tag along for my third trip at the end of the month!

If you have a beauty lover in your life and are looking to gift them the ultimate beauty gift... look no further than the Urban Decay Naked Cherry VAULT! It features most of the collection and is perfect for creating a ton of amazing looks!

Overall, this collection is beautiful and worth the investment! If you love warm, Fall tones, this is one you won't want to miss! You can shop the collection here! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla

*Press sample - all opinions are my own based on my experience with this collection.

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IT Cosmetics IT's Your Top 5 Superstars QVC TSV

2018-11-08T10:33:00.000-05:00

Get excited IT GIRLS!!!! IT Cosmetics’ IT’s Your Top 5 Superstars and More! 6-Piece Holiday Collection gives you the power to feel your most beautiful this holiday—and beyond! This Today’s Special Value is scheduled to debut on QVC Saturday, November 10, 2018 but is available for pre-order NOW!

This exclusive six-piece collection features five of your best-selling favorites for skin, complexion and eyes—and a perfectly paired brand new brush! Prep your skin with Confidence in a Cream to intensely moisturize and reduce the look of fine lines. Then, use your included Heavenly Luxe Dual-Ended Buff and Blend Brush No. 23 to apply Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer to conceal the look of imperfections and Celebration Foundation for a flawless-looking finish in 30 seconds. Sweep Superhero Mascara through your lashes for the look of super volume, super length and super elastic stretch in one coat, then finish your IT Girl look by gliding Je Ne Sais Quoi Lip Treatment Serum onto your lips for a natural flush of color that lasts!

These are some of IT's best selling products and this is an excellent opportunity to stock up on your favorites for such an amazing price! It's also a great time to pick up a set to gift for the holidays for the beauty lover in your life! Be sure to take advantage of QVC's easy pay option! Don't miss out on this amazing ONE DAY ONLY deal! Shop it here!

Thank you so much for reading and HAPPY SHOPPING! Xo, Carla

*press sample

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Tarte Pineapple Of My Eye Collector's Set (Limited Edition)

2018-10-29T16:12:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to show you just one of many Tarte Holiday Collection Sets. Today, i'm featuring the Tarte Limited Edition Pineapple Of My Eye Collector's Set because it's truly spectacular and a total must-have! This set has everything you need to create a full look! Whether love mattes, shimmers, cool and warm tones, this palette has something for everyone! I literally swooned while swatching this beauty! The colors are so pigmented and so so beautiful! I love that it has a cheek option alongside the eyeshadows. The cheek portions features a gorgeous bronzer, two blush shades (to know Tarte blushes is to LOVE Tarte blushes) and a gorgeous highlighter! Seriously, this set is all you need if you're traveling this holiday season! I'm traveling three times next month and you bet this beauty is coming along!

If this gorgeous, dual sided palette wasn't enough, this gorgeous set also includes Lights Camera Lashes Mascara (a Tarte fave of course), Sex Kitten liner for the perfect cat eye situation and a dreamy, buttery Lip Quench Balm in Pink! Whether you're looking to pamper yourself with a little something special, or simply looking to gift the beauty lover in your life, this set is not to be missed! It's valued at $354 but costs under $60! This is a major steal! Also, be sure to use code ROUGEBONUS if you're a VIB Rouge member for an additional 20% off your purchase! This is definitely the time to stock up on all your Tarte faves!

Tarte has such a fun tropical holiday collection with a ton of fun little gift options and stocking stuffers so be sure to check them out! I will be featuring more soon but wanted to place a special highlight on this beauty because it's a major show stopper at an exceptional price! Oh and i am equally swooning over the flamingo brush set! I definitely need to get that because duh! You can shop the entire Tarte Holiday Collection here and here!

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*press samples - all opinions are my own.

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Cozy Bee's - Our New Etsy Shop!

2018-10-28T22:15:00.000-04:00

I'm over the moon excited to share our latest little venture! Welcome to Cozy Bee's Etsy Shop focusing mostly on hand-knitted scarves! These scarves are made with so much love and while I've been wearing many of these styles for years, I'm thrilled to finally give you all an opportunity to have your very own! I often get asked about my scarves and always feel bad when i can't share a link or store with you! That's all changed now and I'm beyond excited to finally have a place to direct you all to when asked about my scarves!

We have already sold out of a few styles but will be updating the site when they go back in stock. If there are any colors or styles that peek your interest, be sure to let us know! We love to hear from you and will certainly consider color suggestions! Here is what we currently have on the site!

Chai Latte

Falling Leaves

Basic Bee

Snow Day

Cute and Cozy

Dreamy Pom

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Pretty In Pink

Snow Flake

This is the perfect time of year to stock up on these cozy scarves! They also make beautiful gifts for loved ones! We hope you enjoy our little shop and stay tuned for more fun styles to shop! Thank you in advance for your support! Xo, Carla

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My Secret to Long Luscious Lashes!

2018-10-16T20:21:00.001-04:00

I have dreamt of having long, luscious lashes my entire life! I've sat here countless times ranting about my lifetime membership with the itty bitty lash committee (if you've followed along with me, you know)! In fact, this past February, i decided it was time to try lash extensions! I loved having my extensions so much but truth be told, extensions are high maintenance and quite the commitment! In a nutshell, you have to refill them every 2-3 weeks which really adds up financially. Even more valuable to me was my time! Finding the time to go was a challenge in itself! While i truly enjoyed the experience, i decided to forgo my extensions in June and rebuild my natural lashes.

Let me preface by saying that the extensions did quite a number on my lashes. I used the lash serum recommended by my lash place while the extensions were in to help keep them healthy but it did not work. My lashes were so so sooooo short and barely there when my extensions fell off! Ugh! After a little bit of research, i opted to give Grande Lash MD a try. I used this every morning and night religiously. If you're looking for instant gratification, this is not the product for you. You must be patient and believe me when i tell you, the results will come! It took me a good 6-8 weeks before i noticed a major impact on my lashes but it was SO WORTH THE WAIT! I have never had such long lashes... ever! They're strong, healthy! Finally, i no longer dread the mascara application. I will forever use Grande Lash MD and recommended to anyone who asks! There are so many options out there that are so expensive. I felt that this was a very reasonable option for the kind of results you get. Truly a miracle worker!

A couple of weeks ago, Pixi sent over their new LashLift 188 mascara and OH EM GEEEE! I've fallen hard for this beauty! I used it for the first time on Insta-stories initially while creating a quick 'Get Ready With Me' video and you can essentially see my initial reaction to the application. This mascara comes with two wands. One is super thin and is meant to lengthen lashes. I was a bit thrown off by the thin shape of the mascara as i usually use those types of wands for my bottom lashes. However, this one is PERFECT for grabbing every single lash and depositing just the right amount of product on to your lashes coating each one seamlessly! I cannot begin to tell you how much i LOVE using this every morning! It's instant gratification watching this mascara extend the lashes with every swipe! The second brush is meant to create volume. A few quick swipes and you will have the most gorgeous, dramatic lashes that are evenly coated, pigmented and simply beautiful!

I need to stock up on this power duo and am thrilled to have found exactly what my lashes have been longing for! I was asked a few days ago if i got extensions again and i quickly batted my lashes and proudly replied, "nope, they're mine... all mine!"

I know i haven't been on here much. I truly love blogging and chatting with you all but life... life gets so busy when you're a full time working mommy! Sometimes I'm torn between my passion and my other responsibilities. But what can i say, I'm human... and I'm going to do what i can because that's all i can do. One thing is for sure, when i find products that completely WOW me the way that these have, i obviously have to share them with my favorite beauty BFF's!

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*Press samples - all opinions are my own based on my experience with these products.

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Hello FAB Bendy Avocado Concealer

2018-10-03T16:54:00.000-04:00

If there's one part of my makeup routine i cannot skip, it's concealer! I have the world's deepest, darkest under eye circles (mommy of twinadoes here) and rely on a good concealer to help me look somewhat presentable to the world! Naturally, concealers have to work double duty for me and i can easily dismiss those that simply don't work for me. Well, First Aid Beauty recently released their new Bendy Avocado Concealer and I'm obsessed! You all know how much i love their Ultra Repair Tinted Moisturizer right? It's the perfect everyday situation that evens out my skin tone beautifully and feels incredibly lightweight! I much prefer it over actual foundation for my everyday life! Well, these concealers, in my opinion, are the quintessential product to compliment the tinted moisturizer. They do a wonderful job at concealing without creasing, the formula is hydrating and while ti's full coverage, it feels light to the touch. A perfect compliment to this concealer is the Kona Eye Stick! This is a three-in-one eye treatment that soothes, depuffs and primes the under eye area! You get an instant cooling sensation upon application and you can really feel the concealer adhere to this product ensuring it stays put all day long. I also love using this as an eyeshadow primer!

FAB is killing it lately with their product releases and these are no exception. Absolutely give these a try! I have no doubt you'll love it as much as i do! So many of you reached out letting me know how much you enjoyed the tinted moisturizer i recommended and i truly appreciate your feedback. I think this is the perfect compliment to that product and feel that you will love it too! You can purchase these here and here! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*press sample - all opinions are my own based on my experience with these products.

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