...OBSESSIONS to LIVE FOR...

3 Lip Sets to LUST For...

2013-10-25T20:31:00.000-05:00

Long time, no talk! So I've started a job at Sephora inside JCPenney and it has gotten my creative juices flowing. For the first time in a long time I've been inspired to blog! Here we go...

Normally as the weather gets colder, I get progressively more depressed. But colder weather does mean Christmas is getting closer, and that means holiday gift sets. Score! These are the three sets I'm currently lusting after...

OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE COSMETICS Lip Tar All-Star Mini x 4 Set ($20)... I currently only own one lip tar but it's pretty amazing, super pigmented, and long-wearing. I think these minis would be perfect for anybody's collection, and the color selection is perfect to create the ever-so-popular "ombre" lip look. ;)

Kat Von D Spellbinding Lipstick Set ($39)... Speaking of minis, these little babies are tiny. (Just a word of warning to those of you who haven't seen any of these in person!) That being said, this set is a great way to try out 10 different shades, and in several different formulas. I just received this in the mail and I'm itching to swatch them all!

MARC JACOBS BEAUTY I Lovemarc Collection ($350)... I couldn't talk about lip sets and not mention this one, even though there's no way I'm going to drop that kind of dough on it. (sorry Marc! lol) Thirteen full-sized lipsticks in a ultra sleek lacquered case. I mean, what is there to say about this except, O. M. G. - let me wipe up my drool -

What are the lip/holiday sets you are lusting after?! Share below!

Xx-

Bethany

January/February Beauty Wishlist!

2013-01-20T21:00:00.003-06:00

YouTubers and bloggers have been doing their "2012 Favorites" videos/posts lately and it has inspired me to create a wishlist! Let's go in order of application...

First up!

Origins Skincare

Origins Skincare Must Haves ($55)... Recently I have been using the Origins Clear Improvement Charcoal Mask. I've really been liking it and thought it'd be nice to try some of their other products. This little set is from Sephora (you can get it here) and includes a face wash, exfoliater, moisturizer, eye cream, and anti-aging serum. Sounds good to me!!

Dior Diorskin Forever Flawless Perfection Wear Makeup

Diorskin Forever Flawless Foundation ($47)... This is inspired by a video by Lorraine, TheCurrentCustom, on YouTube. I'm still grieving over my beloved YSL Teint Resist being discontinued, and it sounds like this might be a good replacement! It's supposed to be medium to full coverage, long wearing, and doesn't need a powder on top. Perfect. (find it here)

Dolce & Gabbana The Eyeshadow Smooth Eye Colour Quad in "Jewels 142"

Dolce & Gabbana Eye Colour Quad ($59)... Sephora now carries Dolce & Gabbana cosmetics so obviously I need to try some of their products out! I'm not sure which quad I like the most, but this one in Jewels 142 is something a little bit different for me. Sure, I have these colors, but not in one palette! Have any of you tried D&G cosmetics?? (find it here)

Hourglass Film Noir Full Spectrum Mascara in "Onyx"

Hourglass Film Noir Mascara in Onyx ($28)... Christine from Temptalia named this the best high end dramatic mascara for 2013. Now, I have mascaras practically coming out of my ears, but I would really like to give this one a go! (find it here)

Too Faced Perfect Lips in "Nude"

Too Faced Perfect Lips liner in Nude ($18.50)... I can't remember the video I was watching, but one YouTuber raved about this lip liner. I am forever on the hunt for the perfect nude lip liner. Quite frankly it's getting old! I just feel like I need to try this one. It's sold out at the moment but when it's back in I will definitely be purchasing! (find it here)

So what is on your wishlist?? Have you tried any Dolce & Gabbana products? Do tell!! :)

Xx-

Bethany

Cumulative HAUL :)

2012-09-30T15:53:00.004-05:00

While I haven't been blogging lately, I have still been buying! Here's some pics and swatches of what I've picked up recently...

Read on for more pics and swatches!!!

left to right: Illamasqua Blushers in "Hussy" and "Naked Rose"

If you have read my other posts, you know I LOVE Illamasqua blushes! These are my latest additions to my collection ;)

left to right: Illamasqua Blushers in "Hussy" and "Naked Rose"

Hussy really is a beautiful shade. I'd describe it as a coral/pink. Naked Rose is a subtle shade that will go with almost any makeup look. I know I will get lots of use out of this shade!

Bobbi Brown Sparkle Eye Shadows in "Sunlight", and "Black Chocolate", Laura Mercier Metallic Creme Eye Color in "Rose Gold"

Bobbi Brown has been impressing me more and more. Their eye shadows are gorgeous! Recently I have been collecting the sparkle eye shadows, but their shimmer wash formula is amaaaazing as well. They retail for around $21 but you get 2.8g of product so it's totally worth it!

Bobbi Brown Sparkle Eye Shadows in "Sunlight", and "Black Chocolate", Laura Mercier Metallic Creme Eye Color in "Rose Gold"

I'll be honest, I have had this Laura Mercier cream shadow for a while now and still haven't used it! It really is pretty though.

Shiseido Lacquer Rouge in "Nymph"

This is another product I really haven't used yet. I love my YSL Glossy Stains, so I wanted to try similar products in other brands.

Illamasqua Nail Varnish in "Creator"

I'm a huge fan of Illamasqua polishes. The formula is great, and super opaque!

I also got a few brow products, but I'll do a separate post about those! So do you have any favorite new products that you've discovered??

Xx-

Bethany

NEW Illamasqua "Generation Q" Collection!!!

2012-08-23T11:54:00.002-05:00

My favorite blushes, hands down, are from Illamasqua. The quality and pigmentation can't be beat.. not to mention they have the best matte shades ever! So, naturally, I have been wanting to try some of their eye shadows. :) I'm not one for singles (I just don't end up using them!) so I was so excited to see these pics of new eye shadow palettes!

Illamasqua "Generation Q" Collection

The upcoming collection comes out in October, but some products may be released early! I have my eye on this one...

Illamasqua eye shadow palette in "Empower"

These shades are right up my alley! *LOVE* Here's my other fav products from the collection...

Illamasqua eye shadow palette in "Complement"

This palette is beautiful too! However, the brown shade looks to be a cream, which I'm not so keen on.

Illamasqua Gleam in "Aurora"

I really don't need any new highlighters, but this "Gleam" in Aurora looks gorgeous! Ugh, if only I could actually use up the products I have :(

So have you seen this collection yet?? Will you check it out?!

Xx-

Bethany

New! MAC Styleseeker Collection...

2012-08-16T14:42:00.002-05:00

For some reason I had NO CLUE this MAC collection was coming out... am I the only one who was in the dark on this one?! Anyway, I thought I'd share the Styleseeker promo pics with you guys!

MAC Styleseeker Collection

I actually quite like the little duos that MAC comes out with. There are usually a couple with permanent shades, and a couple with limited edition shades. I'm thinking of getting the duo below...

MAC Marche aux Puces Eye Shadow x2... This duo comes with Chessa, a midtone golden orange (veluxe pearl) and Indie Spirit, a chestnut brown (matte). This would be a great duo for fall! I'm debating whether to wait for Temptalia's review, or just go for it and purchase... ?!

MAC Eye Shadow in Chessa

MAC Eye Shadow in Indie Spirit

Are there any products in this collection that you are thinking of getting?? What other of MAC's million collections are you looking forward to?

Xx-

Bethany

MAC Lipstick HAUL.. By Request Collection and More!

2012-08-10T13:26:00.000-05:00

As soon as I found out that MAC was releasing Candy Yum-Yum again with their By Request Collection, I knew I had to place an order and grab a backup =) Of course I HAD to pick up a few more things.. to make the shipping worth it ;)

First the lipsticks..

left to right: MAC Lady Danger, Show Orchid, Candy Yum-Yum, Moxie

MAC Lady Danger... I'm not sure that orange-based colors are the most flattering on me, but I don't really care because I LOVE this shade! I have been eyeing it for a while and decided to just freakin' buy it already =) This lipstick is a matte, but really swatched nicely and was pretty creamy.. maybe it will matte down a bit as you wear it? We shall see.

MAC Show Orchid... This one is a pro shade. I had never seen it in person before but I decided to pick it up because I've been loving Girl About Town so much lately, and wanted something similar but different (what?) to wear. Show Orchid is an amplified, which is my favorite formula, so it's pigmented and creamy. :)

MAC Candy Yum-Yum... I originally purchased this lipstick when the Quite Cute collection came out last year. It's SO bright! I say it all the time, but the pictures just don't capture the vivid color! Let's just say this shade isn't for the meek.

MAC Moxie... I hadn't really heard of this shade until talks of the By Request Collection started. It's just one of those nice pinky-reds. I like it, but I'm sure there are lots of similar shades out there!

left to right: MAC Lady Danger, Show Orchid, Candy Yum-Yum, Moxie

MAC Paint Pot in Soft Ochre

MAC Paint Pot in Soft Ochre... I use Painterly Paint Pot quite a lot as an eye shadow base, but when I have a tan it goes a bit ashy looking. Cue, Soft Ochre =) It covers the small veins above my eyes and is a bit lighter than my skin-tine so it adds some brightness. I'd say the shade is around a NW15, but more neutral.

left to right: MAC Lady Danger, Show Orchid, Candy Yum-Yum, Moxie, Paint Pot in Soft Ochre

Ok, that's it for me! I haven't been buying a lot of cosmetics lately because I've been on a fashion kick, but I just couldn't resist these!!

So did/will you pick up anything from the By Request Collection?! What is your favorite MAC lipstick?

Xx-

Bethany

INs and OUTs... to LIVE FOR...

2012-08-01T01:50:00.000-05:00

I haven't done one of these posts in literally AGES and honestly I love them. Sandra just posted one and it inspired me to do one of my own!

INs:

- Fall clothing! I can't wait until I don't feel as though I have to swim through the hot air here, and all of the new fall clothing that has been coming out looks amazing!

- Searching for a new handbag.. this is almost an "OUT" as I haven't been finding much that I love at the moment :/ but here's a RZ bag that is a top contender! Not to mention it's on sale, which is always a plus!

Rachel Zoe "Zoe Mini" find it here

- Re-building my wardrobe.. I've been trying to spruce up my "look" to go a bit more sophisticated, blazers, pencil skirts, etc. It's definitely a work in progress!

- Watching Pretty Little Liars.. such great inspiration for me to finally quit being lazy and actually do my hair for once! I mean seriously? They have their hair curled and perfect every single second of this show.. *gag*..... ok ok I'm just jealous ;)

OUTs:

- Being stuck in the house.. this heat's a bitch.

Xx-

Bethany

Blog SALE Preview...

2012-07-14T12:59:00.001-05:00

So, I've been doing a little... summer?... cleaning and finally went through my makeup. There are so many great products that I just don't use, and it's a shame! I'll be having a blog sale in a few days and just wanted to give you all a little preview!

Blog sale

Blog sale, CHANEL Poudre Universelle Libre

It will be U.S. and Paypal only. (sorry!) You can also expect some extra goodies along with any purchase =)

Xx-

Bethany

What's in my cart...Tophop, ZARA, Lastcall

2012-07-07T20:36:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been a bit off makeup.. that's right I said it! Summer collections have underwhelmed me to say the least. My fingers are crossed that the fall collections will be more exciting -- Guerlain's looks promising!

In the meantime I have been OBSESSED with fashion blogs (Atlantic-Pacific, buy now, blog later, and Pink Peonies are a few current favs!) and just discovered Polyvore. I've gotten super inspired to mix up my wardrobe and transition into a slightly more sophisticated style of dress. More preppy with a trendy edge =) To do this I have decided to invest in some classic pieces as well as a few trendy pieces that I can mix into the clothes I already have.

These are some recent purchases I'm waiting for in the post...

Topshop...

Topshop HAUL

Lastcall...

Casual Couture Peplum Top (Ivory)

French Connection Silky Self-Tie Top

Equipment Bret Tie-Neck Blouse (Bright White)

Fade to Blue Leopard-Print Shorts

And in case you didn't know, ZARA is having a sale.. so of course I took advantage ;)

ZARA HAUL (I ordered the pumps in Nude!)

Now, if you can't tell, I have some very similar tops that I ordered.. I always plan on not liking a few pieces, and sending them back. So I tried a few different sizes and ordered peplum tops from all sites in hopes that at least one will work!

I'll take pics and let you guys know which pieces I like and keep!

What have you thought about the summer makeup collections?? Are you already excited about fall like I am? What are your favorite fashion trends of-the-moment? I'd love to hear!!!

Xx-

Bethany

What I've been up to... Wedding Pics!!

2012-06-28T22:42:00.005-05:00

I have been a terrible blogger the last couple months, I know. But a lot has been happening! For the last month I have been in Michigan preparing for and having my wedding =) I don't have all of the pictures back but I wanted to share some of that day with my blogger famliy <3

Me with the girls before the wedding.

WARNING: Tons of pics! haha

My new hubs!

Wedding party after the ceremony.

Yep, I wore flip-flops. The price you pay for not having a tall significant other.. =)

Jump!! haha I love when people do this picture!

We snuck out after dinner and did a few shots just the two of us, it was a nice little break from guests!

Cake!! (and trying hard not to let any fall on my dress! haha)

Geez I could post pictures for days! lol We had a blast at the wedding. Even though planning got a bit stressful, I think in the end it was worth all of the time and money it took to put on :)

Below are some snaps of details on my dress, because I know you can't see it very well in pictures above.

Bodice detail. I'm not sure what this style is called but it's a Maggie Sotterro gown. She has some gorgeous dresses in lots of different styles!

This is when I tried the dress on in the shop. I didn't end up wearing a veil because it just seemed too fussy. It ended up being so windy on the day I was glad I had decided not to!

Okay, I swear I'm done posting pictures! ;) So what have you guys been up to the last couple months??

Xx-

Bethany

Quick MUFE HAUL and Review!!

2012-06-16T06:39:00.000-05:00

This haul is long LONG overdue! I have been using the foundation and primer for a month already (talk about being a terrible blogger!) but now I can give you a good review on how I like them :) Here we go...

MAKE UP FOR EVER Mat Velvet + Mattifying Foundation in #35 "Vanilla"... I really liked this foundation when I first started using it. It goes on smoothly, covers all of my pigmentation problems, and leaves a nice natural finish. However, the longevity of wear is not the best. It's not one of those foundations that just starts wearing off either, it actually separates on my face! The hotter I am during the day (and when I sweat), the faster this happens. Depending on what I'm doing the foundation will last around 8 hours on my normal/combo skin before it starts turning a bit wonky. Though this is clearly not my ideal foundation I will continue using it until it's gone, either mixed with something else or for short periods of time.

left to right: MUFE Mat Velvet + in #35 "Vanilla", Full Cover Concealer in #3 "Light Beige", Diamond Shadow in #303 "Diamond Pink", Aqua Cream in #4 "Snow"

MUFE Full Cover Concealer in #3 "Light Beige"... Love this concealer. L. O. V. E. Seriously. I have some pretty hardcore dark circles, and this not only covers them but stays on all day! I have shade #3 Light Beige, and it's pretty darn light. I'm thinking I need to get the next shade darker for the summer.. I'd say NW20 and up definitely need a darker shade than this one! However, if you are into that "Kardashian" look then this may be the shade for you! ;) Anyway, this is an amazing concealer. It's waterproof and will definitely be what I wear this month for my wedding!!

MUFE Diamond Shadow in #303 "Diamond Pink"... I have been wanting a pink inner-eye highlight and this is most definitely it. You can see in the swatch that it has a beautiful sheen and sparkle, but doesn't have any fallout.

MUFE Aqua Cream in #4 "Snow"... I'm a huge fan of MUFE Aqua Creams. They stay on alllllll day until you take it off with makeup remover. I usually have a problem with my inner highlight wearing off, but with this as a base I don't have to worry about that!

So what have you guys been loving lately? It's been forever since I have read posts!!

Xx-

Bethany

Current Favorite - Lippies!

2012-05-13T08:57:00.000-05:00

On to the next favorite post, lippies!! I picked out my current favorites and most used... and they are all pinks :) Don't judge me! haha

Laura Mercier Creme Lipstick in "Evening Pink", Lancome Lipstick in "Rose Candy", YSL Glossy Stain in #15 "Rose Vinyl", MAC Amplified Lipstick in "Chatterbox", Dior Addict Lipstick in 465 "Singuliere", CHANEL Glossimer in #161 "Bagatelle"

Read on for swatches and mini reviews!

P.S. I know the lipsticks look hardly used, but that's because I cut them off at the base and put them in a lipstick palette.

left to right: Laura Mercier "Evening Pink", Lancome "Rose Candy", YSL Glossy Stain #15, MAC "Chatterbox", Dior #465, CHANEL Glossimer "Bagatelle"

Laura Mercier Creme Lipstick in "Evening Pink"... This is my first LM lipstick, and I must say I'm impressed! The formula is nice and creamy (go figure) and it doesn't dry out my lips. I like using this lippie by just dabbing it on my lips for more of a "stain." It leaves a less intense color that way, and I've really been loving it! This one was a bit tough for me to find, I got it from Nordstrom but I don't see it on their website any longer.

Lancome Lipstick in "Rose Candy"... I love the formula of this lipstick. It's like a cross between the Dior Addict and Addict Extreme lippies. - super moisturizing and sheer but build-able. This shade may have been limited edition, but you can find other shades here.

left to right: Laura Mercier "Evening Pink", Lancome "Rose Candy", YSL Glossy Stain #15, MAC "Chatterbox", Dior #465, CHANEL Glossimer "Bagatelle"

YSL Glossy Stain in #15 "Rose Vinyl"... This was the first shade of the Glossy Stains that I purchased, and it made me fall in love!! When you first apply the Glossy Stains the formula feels very wet, but if you rub your lips together a bit and wait a few seconds that feeling goes away and you are left with an only slightly sticky feel. The color of these can be worn sheer, or built up with 2 or 3 layers for a much more intense color. So versitile! This particular shade was sold out for a while on the Sephora website, they may have it now but you can also find it here.

MAC Amplified Lipstick in "Chatterbox"... I own tons of MAC lipsticks, probably too many, and out of them all I would say that Chatterbox is the perfect pink! It leans on the warmer side, but not too much that it wouldn't be versatile for many skin-tones. Find it here!

left to right: Laura Mercier "Evening Pink", Lancome "Rose Candy", YSL Glossy Stain #15, MAC "Chatterbox", Dior #465, CHANEL Glossimer "Bagatelle"

Dior Addict Lipstick in 465 "Singuliere"... This is an all-time favorite of mine. If my fiance and I are in the car and I'm driving, I can ask him to get out my favorite lipstick (of the 12 that I keep in my handbag) for me and he totally knows which one it is!! Now that says something ;)
This lipstick is more like a pigmented lipgloss in a tube than an actual lipstick. The formula is moisturizing and has a nice slip. The shade looks a bit darker on my lips than it shows in this swatch, it's not as milky looking. Find it here or here!

CHANEL Glossimer in #161 "Bagatelle"... CHANEL glossimers are really beautiful, but I can't justify purchasing them unless the shade has actual pigmentation, which this one does! It is a slightly yellow-toned shade with very fine gold shimmer. I think this one would look great on any skin-tone! Bagatelle is limited edition but is still available here.

So, have you tried any of these products? Have any different shades that are your favorite pinks? Share below!!

Xx-

Bethany

Current Favorite - FOUNDATIONS...

2012-05-07T13:47:00.000-05:00

Lately I haven't been blogging much... I've just gotten a bit bored of it all. So to mix things up a bit I have decided to do some "Current Favorite" posts on different categories of cosmetics. I purchase quite a bit of makeup and hardly ever talk about them after I've shown them in my hauls, so now these posts will be a chance for me to show you guys what I have really been liking from my purchases! Hope you enjoy =)

So I have been trying out quite a few new foundations the past few months in preparation for my upcoming wedding, and I thought I'd share a quick overview on my thoughts of them, as well as swatches! I've selected 4 that are my current favorites at the moment...

left to right: Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation, YSL Teint Resist Foundation, MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, VICHY Dermablend Corrective Foundation.

MY SKIN: My skin is normal/combination, leaning towards the dry side lately. I have pigmentation problems, as well as the occasional breakout. Usually I like full coverage foundations, but when my skin is "good" I will use medium coverage buildable foundations.

Read more for my mini-reviews and swatches!

left to right: Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation, YSL Teint Resist Foundation, MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, VICHY Dermablend Corrective Foundation.

Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation in No. 7... This is one of the newer foundations I have been trying, and I really have been enjoying it. (I will spare you the details like ingredients and the official descriptions of all of these!) Skin Base is a medium to full coverage foundation. The finish is beautiful and gives your skin a "natural" look. In the first swatch below you will be able to sort of see the consistency (it isn't dripping). I don't find it too thick or too thin, and I have found that applying it with a brush or your fingers both work well. This foundation lasts a good 8 hours on my normal/combo skin. I do like to set my T-zone with a powder, but I don't think it's really necessary.

**The thing I like most about Skin Base is that it has medium coverage but can be built up without looking cakey. I have even purchased the white shade of this foundation to mix with other foundations that are too dark for me at the moment.

left to right: Illamasqua in #7, YSL in #5, MAC in NW15, VICHY Dermablend in 15 Opal

YSL Teint Resist Foundation in #5... This is another of the newer foundations that I have been really liking. I can see myself purchasing this over and over again. This foundation does have a smell. I've heard people say it smells rosy like Chanel products (which I really don't like) but I find it smells quite fresh, which I love! Teint Resist has a medium coverage and is also buildable. The finish is natural like Skin Base, but it has more of a matte finish. When it dries it looks and feels like nothing is there! I think this foundation would be great for people with normal to oily skin. Powdering isn't necessary with this foundation. Applying this with your fingers will give less coverage, and applying with a brush will provide more coverage, just depends what you are going for! I like to use a dense kabuki brush.

**The thing I like most about Teint Resist is the finish. It's SO natural, my fiance doesn't even know I'm wearing makeup when I wear this! And I'll admit I don't tell him I am... =)

left to right: Illamasqua in #7, YSL in #5, MAC in NW15, VICHY Dermablend in 15 Opal

MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation in NW15... I'll say right off the bat that I don't like this foundation on it's own. It is a VERY full coverage and can tend to look cakey on the skin if you apply too much. That being said, it's perfect when mixed with YSL Teint Resist!! Like I said earlier, I like full coverage foundation when my skin isn't looking great, or when I just want a super flawless face. So the YSL foundation doesn't always cut it by itself. One day I mixed the two foundations and it has become a favorite of mine! The mixture gives me full coverage and a really nice finish. This may be what I wear on my wedding day... it's June 16th so I will let you know shortly what I end up wearing and share some pics!

left to right: Illamasqua in #7, YSL #5 and MAC NW15 mixed, Vichy Dermablend in 15 Opal

Vichy Dermablend in 15 Opal... I own this foundation in 15 Opal as well as 25 Nude. I've already done a review with swatches on this foundation so I will link it HERE. This is a staple in my makeup collection!

So, what is your current favorite foundation?! Let me know below, I love trying your recommendations!

Xx-

Bethany

NORDSTROM Haul! NEW Dior, YSL, Laura Mercier...

2012-04-20T08:09:00.003-05:00

So I did a bit of a Nordstrom haul last week after I saw the new Dior bronzers that came out with their summer collection =)
On to the goods!

Picture heavy!

First up, LIPPIES =)

Laura Mercier shimmer lip color in "Evening Pink" and YSL Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain in #10

left to right: Laura Mercier in "Evening Pink" and YSL in #10

Laura Mercier shimmer lip color in "Evening Pink"... I have never tried a Laura Mercier lipsick, and after seeing some swatches on Temptalia's blog I just had to try this one! I have yet to actually wear it so I can't comment on wear-time, but it is a great pink. There are probably millions of dupes for this shade, but I like it :) find it here
YSL Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain in #10... It's probably no surprise to those of you who regularly read my blog that I'm OBSESSED with the YSL Glossy Stains, so I picked up a red shade. I'm going to do a post with swatches of all the shades that I have soon! find it here

On to the Dior bronzer...

Dior 'Nude Glow' Sun Powder Bronzer in "Mocha"

Dior 'Nude Glow' Sun Powder Bronzer in "Mocha"... First of all let me tell you how fabulous the packaging is.. it's A-MAY-ZING!!! It feels heavy and expensive in your hand, has a wonderful magnetic closure, and is a great size to throw in your purse. Did I mention it comes with a brush? =) The little kabuki brush is actually really nice! I've already used it with the bronzer and I quite like it. It also comes in a felt sleeve so I will definitely keep this one in my handbag! find it here

Oh, maybe I should shut up and show you the actual product ;)

Dior 'Nude Glow' Sun Powder Bronzer in "Mocha"

The shade is a bit intimidating when you first open it. It is a bit darker and more orange looking in real life than the picture shows! I've swatched it below with all of my other bronzers so you can get a good idea of the shade.

left to right: Dior "Mocha", MAC "Blunt", NARS "Casino", NARS "Laguna", Too Faced "Chocolate Soleil"

As you can see, the pigmentation of the Dior Mocha and MAC Blunt is a million times better than NARS and Too Faced bronzers. I had to swatch the NARS and Too Faced 3 times just to get the color payoff you see in the swatches!
You can also see the difference in tone between the Dior and MAC: Dior being a more orange-y brown, and MAC being a more red-y brown.
I personally like the Dior shade. I'll be using it more as an all-over bronze, while my MAC Blunt I really like using for a contour.

*WARNING: The kabuki will pick up a LOT of product. If you are going to use this for an all-over bronzer I recommend using a duo-fiber brush, or do a hell of a lot of blending! =)

So, what do you think?! There are many other shades of this Dior bronzer, so check them out at a counter if you're interested!

Xx-

Bethany

'Long Over-due MAC Haulage'...

2012-04-18T08:18:00.002-05:00

This little haul is LONG over-due! Having a MACPro card means I can get products a week or so before they actually launch, so I have had these a couple weeks.. oops! =)

MAC Haul

God knows a few of these products have been done to death, so I'll just show my swatches and not bore you with tons of pics of the products themselves...

left to right: MAC MSF in "Superb" and "Whisper of Gilt", Viva Glam lipstick in "Nicki"

left to right: MAC MSF in "Superb"blended out and "Whisper of Gilt", Viva Glam lipstick in "Nicki"

The two MSFs are showing up very true to life, but the Nicki lipstick isn't showing quite as bright as it is in person. Needless to say I LOVE the MSFs, and I'm sure Nicki is going to be a summer staple for me :)

Okay, next up I purchased MAC Chromographic pencil in Pure White and an eye shadow in Brown Script.

MAC eye shadow in "Brown Script" and MAC Chromographic pencil in "Pure White"

left to right: MAC Chromographic pencil in "NC15/NW20" and "Pure White", ES in "Brown Script" and "Espresso"

MAC Chromographic pencil in "Pure White"... I normally use my NC15/NW20 pencil for my bottom waterline to cancel out the red, and I really do like it. It's not too stark but really opens up my eyes. However, I didn't have any sort of white eye liner! I've worn Pure White on my waterline already and like it, it's just a different look. I also really needed this to define my winged liner!! I love applying it subtly underneath my wing to make it more of a statement.

MAC eye shadow in "Brown Script"... I'm in love with reddish browns, in case you didn't know =) But most of the ones I own are darker, so I purchased Brown Script for a softer look with the same tones. I pictured it above next to Espresso just to give you an idea of the amount of warmth in the shade!

The MSFs are sold out on the MAC website, but you can still purchase Whisper of Guilt from Nordstrom's here!

So did you get the MSFs? What do you think of them??

Xx-

Bethany

Better late than never!!! =)

2012-04-14T12:31:00.000-05:00

Alright, so I finally got a phone that I can actually do things on... and seeing WitchHazel's post about her twitter and etc made me finally get a move on. Sooooooo................................

TWITTER @Obsessions2Liv4

INSTAGRAM @Obsessions2Liv4

I welcome myself to the year 2012 =) Join me!!

Xx-

Bethany

TODAY: 50% off Illamasqua Blushers!!!!

2012-04-07T15:45:00.003-05:00

Wanted to give you guys a heads-up, 5 shades of Illamasqua blushers are 50% off today on Illamasqua.com!!!! The shades include: Lover, Tremble, Katie, Hussy, and Nymph. (click here to see my post with swatches of a few of the shades) There is also free shipping for any international orders over $75.

I for one, am excited beyond belief!! I'm picking up the two shades I don't have yet, along with 2 additional shades that aren't on sale so that I can get free shipping ;)

Yay! Will you be trying out any of the blush shades?

Xx-

Bethany

APRIL Wish List: Shoes & Bags!

2012-04-03T16:02:00.000-05:00

Lately I've found myself browsing less for makeup and more for accessories, particularly handbags and shoes! Here are a few of the things I have been lusting over lately...

Sperry Angelfish Slip On Boat Shoes

I can't help it, I think boat shoes are cute! I've basically fallen in love with these.. they must be mine! You can check them out here.

Louis Vuitton Damier Neverfull MM

I haven't purchased a handbag since my last summer and I've gotten an itch for a new one! Although I would just die for a Celine Luggage bag, something like this LV tote is more affordable for me... and is still right out of my price range :)

J Crew Tillary tote

So this is my Celine-inspired substitute. This handbag is from J Crew (found here) and is leather, so I'm thinking the quality would be nice!

TOMS Ash University Rope Sole Classics

I've never been a huge fan of TOMS, but I saw these in the store a while back and I still think about them.. You can check them out here!

Xx-

Bethany

New Limited-Edition CHANEL Eye Palette!!

2012-03-30T10:09:00.001-05:00

Am I the only one who had no idea this was coming out?!

CHANEL Limited-Edition Ombres Matelassees

I'm intrigued!

Xx-

Bethany

'NOTD: OPI Combo'...

2012-03-21T12:46:00.000-05:00

It feels like spring has officially arrived, and some days it feels more like summer! So I needed a bright nail look to go with the weather =) I decided to go with a nail combo instead of my typical "glitter nail".. and as always, the photos don't nearly do it justice!

NOTD: OPI "Charged Up Cherry" & "Strawberry Margarita"

Shown above is Strawberry Margarita, and I've applied it on my middle and ring finger....

NOTD: OPI "Charged Up Cherry" & "Strawberry Margarita"

And Charged Up Cherry on my thumb, pointer, and pinky fingers! Of course you can't see how bright it really is in person, but I just love the subtle difference in shade.

So, what are you wearing on your nails???

Xx-

Bethany

BEST Purchase EVER!!!

2012-03-14T21:08:00.001-05:00

I don't know about you, but if I can't see my makeup, I don't use it. This especially applies to my NARS eye shadows. A while back I de-potted them and put them in an empty MAC palette I had.... That didn't work. I STILL couldn't see the shadows and always forgot about them!!! So I finally paid the $20 and bought a Z Palette =) BEST. PURCHASE. EVER.

After it came in the mail I immediately bought 2 more. Check it!

Z Palette

The Z Palette fits a few more eye shadows than a MAC palette does, even when you take out the separator. The shadows just fit perfectly in nice straight lines..........OCD anyone?

Z Palette with MAC eye shadows

I have most of my MAC shadows in this palette now, with the exception of some brights...

Z Palette with MAC bright eye shadows & pressed pigments

Here are my brights on the right, and pressed pigments on the left. If you want to see how I pressed my pigments and the materials I used click HERE to go over to WitchHazel's blog where she did an amazing "How To!"

Z Palette with MUFE eye shadows & NARS eye shadow duos

And finally the Z Palette with my NARS eye shadow duos. I also placed my MUFE eye shadows in here as well, at least temporarily until I fill it up with NARS ;)

Pretty awesome, huh? If I really end up utilizing my NARS shadows again I think I'm going to "reward" myself by getting a few new duos =) lol So I need to know...

What NARS duos are your fav?!?!?!

Xx-

Bethany

Upcoming Collection: Illamasqua "Human Fundamentalism"

2012-03-07T19:48:00.001-06:00

I'm super excited about the new Illamasqua Spring/Summer 2012 collection! "Human Fundamentalism" is available now for pre-order here, and features two eye shadow palettes!! Here's a peek at the collection...

Illamasqua Spring/Summer 2012 Human Fundamentalism Collection

Illamasqua Spring/Summer 2012 Human Fundamentalism Collection "Neutral" Palette

Illamasqua Spring/Summer 2012 Human Fundamentalism Collection

Illamasqua Spring/Summer 2012 Human Fundamentalism Collection "Fundamental" Palette

Illamasqua Spring/Summer 2012 Human Fundamentalism Collection

The eye palettes end up being $47.62 USD... pretty expensive if you ask me, but I may have to try out the neutral palette!

So what do you guys think?? I always love seeing Illamasqua's promo pics =)

Xx-

Bethany

'HAUL China Glaze: Hunger Games'...

2012-03-06T18:37:00.006-06:00

Okay, so I know the web is full of swatches of these polishes... but on the off-chance that you haven't checked them out yet, here are the shades I purchased!!!!

China Glaze Hunger Games Collection: "Smoke and Ashes", "Riveting", "Electrify", "Fast Track", "Luxe and Lush"

China Glaze "Hunger Games" - Sally's has it!!!!

2012-03-01T20:21:00.001-06:00

Just a quick little blurb here.. I went to Sally's Beauty Supply earlier this week, and they had the Hunger Games nail polishes out!!! The girl working said they had gotten them last week! I thought they weren't coming out until March 26th so I was pretty pumped =)

Long story short, check your Sally's for the collection! They also have them on their website. So if you were like me and didn't realize the polishes would be out so soon, now you know!

I'll talk pictures of the colors I picked up tomorrow :)

Xx-

Bethany

'HAUL: Dior Addict EXTREME Lipsticks and NARS'...

2012-02-24T23:30:00.001-06:00

I'm pretty much obsessed with my Dior Addict lippies, so when I saw the new EXTREME lipsticks on Sephora.com I immediately searched the internet for swatches =) Unfortunately back when I ordered there weren't too many swatches to come by, so I just picked two and went for it! Here's what I picked up...

Dior Addict EXTREME Lipsticks

Keep reading for colors, swatches, and some NARS! (a bit picture heavy)

Dior Addict EXTREME Lipsticks

left to right: Dior Addict EXTREME Lipsticks in 476 "Plaza" and 667 "Avenue"

These applied really smoothly much like the regular Dior Addict Lipsticks, but the finish is a bit less glossy with these. Don't get me wrong, they are still glossy, just not to the point like the Dior Addict Lipsticks that look like you actually have lipgloss on!

left to right: Dior Addict EXTREME Lipsticks in 476 "Plaza" and 667 "Avenue"

I will tell you that if you are looking at these lippies on Sephora.com, the colors they show next to the lipstick names are NOTHING like what they really are... I would actually say this is true about all lip products on their website.

Ok, now I'm not great at lip shots... but I tried for you!! In person they are definitely a bit darker and more vibrant.

Dior Addict EXTREME Lipstick in 476 "Plaza"

Dior Addict EXTREME Lipstick in 667 "Avenue"

At the time when I ordered, Sephora was offering a little NARS freebie to their "VIBs"...

NARS VIB freebie

The freebie included: Laguna Bronzing Powder, Copacabana Illuminator, and their Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base.

left to right: NARS Illuminator in "Copacabana", NARS Bronzing Powder in "Laguna"

I have tried the Laguna bronzer before and I'm just not a big fan. If you are looking for a medium-tone bronzer I would go for Benefit's Hoola over this. And of course my favorite super pigmented bronzer/contour is the MAC blush in Blunt. Here is Laguna swatched...

left to right: NARS Illuminator in "Copacabana", NARS Bronzing Powder in "Laguna"

Ok so that's it! You better believe I'm going to be picking up a few more Dior Addict EXTREME lippies =) Thankfully there are more swatches out there now to help us decide between shades... though if I had it my way I would just get them all!!!

So have you heard of these? Will you be trying any out??

Xx-

Bethany