Makeup Blog | Beauty | Skincare | Perfume Reviews | Weekend Ramblings

Ecotools Retractable Kabuki Brush (New)

2013-05-20T00:07:00.005-07:00

Ecotools Retractable Kabuki Brush - $7.99

I picked up a newer vesion of the Ecotools Retractable Kabuki Brush a while back from Target. There isn't much different about this when compared to the older version except the packaging is a darker bronze (old one was a plain aluminum) and the bristles seem darker. I use these for powders and blushes, espcially for travel. The synthetic bristles are quite soft, hold their shape quite well with use and washes, and the brush does a decent job at applying powder products. Here's a look at some photos.

When compared side by side, Ecotools older retractable kabuki brush seems just a bit more compact than the newer version, perhaps because of the broader band around the base that holds the bristles a bit more tighter. I don't notice a major difference between the two with use, but since I have both, I keep the older one for a more concentrated application of color and the newer one for powders.

I like that the Ecotools brushes come with their own cloth pouches - it doesn't make much of a difference with this retractable brush, but generally, it's a nice way to keep the brushes clean and dust-free.

For the curious or those who would like a better review, do check my earlier post on the Ecotools Retractable Blush brush. Overall, I love Ecotools makeup brushes - they are quite well made, don't need any special care or handling, and are quite inexpensive. The retractable kabuki is no exception and is definitely a good buy if you are looking for a powder/blush to carry around in your travel kit.

MORE MAKEUP BRUSH REVIEWS:
7 Eye Makeup Brushes You Really Need

Hakuhodo Makeup Brushes
The Body Shop Slanted Eyeliner Brush
Ecotools Day-To-Night 6-piece Makeup Brush Set
TBS Extra Virgin Mineral Foundations Powder Kabuki Brush
Body Shop Blender Brush - Eye Makeup
MAC DuoFiber Stippling Brush - 187
MAC Cosmetics Makeup Brush Cleanser
ELF Studio Powder Brush
Ecotools Retactable Kabuki Brush
Ecotools Eyeshadow Brushes Set
The Body Shop Travel/Mini Makeup Brush Set
TBS Kabuki Bronzing Makeup Brush

Alba Botanica Papaya Mango Body Cream

2013-05-18T23:23:00.000-07:00

Alba Botanica Papaya Mango Body Cream (available here) - $13.99

Skin indulges in the beauty and bounty of the tropics with this skin-revitalizing body cream. Papaya and mango refine and smooth, uncovering healthy-looking, touchably-terrific skin. Beta carotene, aloe, cucumber and rosehip soothe and soften for a body beautiful awakening. Hypo-allergenic.

Alba Botanica Papaya Mango Body Cream

Alba Botanica Papaya Mango Body Cream - Ingredients
Aqua, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Safflower Seed Oil, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearic Acid, Shea Butter, Stearyl Alcohol, Aleurites Moluccana Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Rosa Moschata Seed Oil, Anacyclus Pyrethrum Root Extract, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Papaya Fruit Extract, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Cucumber Fruit Extract, Mango Fruit Extract, Dimethicone, Polysorbate 60, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Citronellol, Eugenol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Limonene, Linalool, Fragrance, Beta-Carotene (CI 40800), Caramel.

I completely forgot about reviewing it until it was almost over - hence the bald spot at the bottom :P

Alba Botanica Papaya Mango Body Cream is my new favorite body moisturizer. Filled with natural moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter and soothing rose and aloe, this body butter is rich and nourishing and just what my dry skin needs. It's easy to apply, spreads easily, and is absorbed into the skin relatively quickly without leaving too much of a greasy residue. The only fault I could find with this - and not too much of an issue for me - is that the product is quite heavily fragranced and might be a bit overwhelming for anyone with a sensitive nose. That minor gripe aside, I find this a fabulous moisturizer, way better than my usual TBS body butters too! It is a bit pricey but worth trying out if you are someone on the lookout for a heavy-duty body moisturizer. I buy this from Whole Foods, but it is quite easily available in a lot of drugstores and online.

A Quick Makeup Tip for Indian Summer: Ditch that Black Liner!

2013-05-18T00:25:00.002-07:00

My one go-to/must-have lifesaving makeup product would be a good, dark black eyeliner. I look like a sleepy zombie without a little swipe of it along my waterline. And that's a problem for me once the heat turns up in the summers. I know there are a million summer makeup tips out there, and I have read tons of articles on how to stop that black liner from smudging. Turn out, they don't really work, at least on my eyes! Sure if it's borderline sunny outside, yes, smudging the line with a shadow might help set it but not in a proper, humid summer like how we have back home in India. So here's my little summer makeup tip/gyaan: Ditch that black liner, but you don't have to go nekkid eyed - opt for a brown-bronze eyeliner instead.

I have used a brownish-bronze eyeliner along my lower lashline - gives just enough of a darkness to my eyes.
I have also used a black shadow liner along my upper lashline, which I won't recommend for the summers. I just couldn't find another photo to post :P

A dark brownish-bronze eyeliner is a fabulous color to use along the waterline: It keeps the eyes from looking too bare, and you won't run the risk looking racoon-eyed even if it starts to smudge as the day wears on. As a bonus, if you have small eyes, this won't make them look smaller the way a true black liner would. Look for something that claims to be waterproof/smudge-proof for added insurance.

Oh, and that nifty little tip about using a primer along the lashline - I walked around Vegas blissfully unaware that the primer was forming a dryish patch along my lower lashline (happens when excess product mixes with the moisture I think) until I happened to check myself in a bathroom mirror. And yes, I was with my husband, and no, he did not notice anything odd about my makeup even when I pointed it out to him :-|

Chanel Nail Polish - Lilis - L'ete Papillon de Chanel Sumer 2013 Makeup Collection

2013-05-17T23:02:00.000-07:00

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour Lilis (available here) - $27

Chanel nail polish in Lilis (647) is a bright reddish coral color from the butterflies-inspired, bright and vivid makeup collection for summer 2013 - L'Ete Papillon de Chanel. Lilis has a creamy, glossy finish, and depending on the light, the color changes ever so sightly, looking a reddish-orange in some lights and a lovely coral in others. The finish is fabulous, opaque at even a single coat (though I need at least 2 coats for deeper, richer color), and the application is streak-free and easy. It's a perfect summer color, and while not as talked about as the other two nail colors in this collection - Azure and Bel-Argus - Lilis is a definite must-have! Scroll on for photos.

Because Lilis takes on a brighter hue under some lights, at times, I find it a teeny bit too bright against my darker skin tone. The formula is fabulous, and the color is a bright pop of color that works great for the summers. My new favorite nail color is Lilis topped with pale shimmery Frisson - it's what I wore all week but, of course, missed on taking photos!

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color - Lilis (647) - Ingredients

Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick - Grace (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatch, FOTD, Review

2013-05-17T22:19:00.000-07:00

Rouge Coco Hydrating Creme Lip Color in Grace ($34) is part of the Avant-Premiere de Chanel, a collection that features reformulated Rouge Coco Shines as well as new shades of the more longer lasting Rouge Coco lipsticks. Grace is described as a "copper redwood" and has very fine shimmer mixed in. The color is a warm brown with peachy-coral tones to it. The shimmer in it is very fine and not really seen on the lips except for adding a bit of a shine to the almost matte-satin finish. Despite being termed a "hydrating" lipstick, I do not find this a moisturizing formula but it does feel comfortable and does not dry out my lips. If your lips are prone to dryness or have dry flaky bits, I would definitely recommend a gentle lip scrub and/or applying with a lip brush to get a better finish. The lipstick is pretty long lasting - I got about 3 hours of wear time with this - and it does leave a light, even stain on the lips even as it fades. Scroll on for photos.

I can never tire of peachy/coral-based brown lipsticks, and as a color that I can wear any time of the year, Chanel Rouge Coco lipstick in Grace is a definite winner for me. The color goes on quite opaque, I like how it instantly brightens my face, and I definitely appreciate the finish and wear time. My lips are very prone to dryness, though, and I prefer the uber-moisturizing Rouge Coco Shines over these, but that is just my personal preference.

Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick - Grace - Ingredients

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15

2013-05-17T01:10:00.000-07:00

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 (available here) - $22.50

Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 blends reparative oils and waxes with real sugar, a natural humectant, for delectable and dependable moisture. Sweet and tart black currant oil, rich in plumping essential fatty acids, cushions the lips while antioxidant grapeseed polyphenols and vitamins A, C, and E provide protection from wrinkle-causing free radicals. It also provides essential, year-round protection from damaging UV rays.

I got the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment balm as part of a Sephora Beauty Insider birthday gift set (from 2012). I had tried - and loved - this lip balm in store before, but as always, I put off buying this and stocked up on makeup instead. Anyway, thanks to Sephora, I finally got my own little tube, a mini-version, but just as effective as the larger full-size version. Fresh products aren't cheap, and at $22.50, this lip balm is no exception, but it is one of the best I have tried so far. This gives almost instant relief to dry lips and keeps my lips moisturized the whole day long. Two things I sort of don't like about it: The packaging is a twist-open sort of cap, and I still haven't learned to stop trying to pulling it open! The other thing is the size of this lip balm. The bigger/regular size tube is a little too big, and I much prefer the mini sizes. It would be so much nicer if Fresh also made individual mini sizes available for sale (at lower prices, of course).

Do give the Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment a try if you are someone who needs a lip balm in every coat pocket and every room of the house. It is pricey, gets used up quite rapidly, and is definitely bit of a luxury, but it is good!

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 - Ingredients

Cera Alba (Beeswax), Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Decyl Esters, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Parfum (Fragrance), Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate, Limnanthes Alba, (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Passiflora Incarnata Seed Oil, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Retinyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Persea Gratissima, (Avocado) Oil , Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Vanillin, Ammonium Glycyrrhizate, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Propyl Gallate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Ci 15850 (Red 7 Lake), Ci 19140 (Yellow 5 Lake), Ci 42090 (Blue 1 Lake), Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Limonene, Citral, Linalool, Benzyl Alcohol, BHT.

Avon SuperExtend Infinitize Mascara

2013-05-17T00:17:00.001-07:00

Avon SuperExtend Infinitize Mascara (available here) - $9.50

PRODUCT PROVIDED BY BRAND FOR REVIEW
Triple sphere brush hugs lashes for end-to-end coverage. Wears for 24 hours! Permaset formula wraps lashes with lengthening fibers and curling agents. Humidity- and sweat-proof. Glob-free, non-clumping formula. All-day wear.

Avon SuperExtend Inifinitize Mascara is lengthening and curling mascara with a unique brush design that helps create a clump-free finish - all things to look for in my ideal mascara. The first thing I noticed about this mascara (apart from the bright orange packaging) is the wand - it's huge! Well, relatively..compared to any other mascara wand I have tried so far, this is quite big. It's a unique design too - with curves and a spherical arrangement to the ~~spikes~~bristles - and I find it quite scary looking for something that comes so close to my eyes :-|

Aside from my gripes about the design, though, this is quite a nice mascara that delivers perfectly on the claims. The Avon SuperExtend Infinite mascara features a a lengthening formula with fibers (can see it in the photos above too) that give a bit of extra length to the lashes, and it does a good job at holding the curl. The wand (that I so dislike) does an excellent job at separating, lifting, and defining the lashes, and I have had zero clumps so far with it! The mascara is smudge-proof and long-lasting but does come off easily enough with a makeup remover. Here's how it looks on my eyes.

Overall, the Avon SuperExtend Infinitize mascara is a good pick if you are looking for lengthened, defined lashes and a clump-free formula. Looking for dark, thick, volumized lashes? This might leave you a bit disappointed.

Product provided by brand for review.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatches, Review, FOTD

2013-05-16T10:41:00.001-07:00

Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Synopsis is part of the Avant-Premiere de Chanel makeup collection and is one of the new-improved Rouge Coco Shines that promise the same balmy feel of the older version but with lots more pigment packed in. Synopsis is described as a "brown rose," and it has very, very fine silver shimmer/sheen to it. The color goes on opaque and smooth with no shimmer showing up on the lips. Because the finish is so creamy and glossy, I can't really call it a frost finish either! Scroll on for photos.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis - Swatch

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis - FOTD

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis - Ingredients

I was never a fan of brown lipsticks, but Rouge Coco Shine lipstick in Synopsis just might change it for me. There is something classic about the color, and paired with a simple brown eyeshadow/liner, it would make as good an office-wear color as it would be for a casual day out shopping. I know this might not seem like a very unique color, but this definitely is dependable. I do need to touch up about every 2 hours, though, since the Rouge Coco Shines are not long-lasting lipsticks, but they do leave the lips feeling moisturized the whole day long.

Dolce and Gabbana Desire Eau de Parfum

2013-05-16T01:15:00.000-07:00

Desire by Dolce&Gabbana (available here) is a deeply feminine fragrance that illuminates everyday moments into something special. A blend of luxurious ingredients as potent and captivating as the emotion of desire itself leads us on a journey of opulent seduction.

Dolce & Gabbana Desire Eau de Parfum - Sephora GWP

Fresh top notes of mandarin, lychee, and bergamot play softly against the sweet innocence of lily of the valley. At the core of an intense heart is a trio of ultrafeminine florals. The elegance of madonna lily and the heady opulence of Indian tuberose are blended with velvety jasmine and addictively sweet plum nectar. Adding an indulgent richness to the base is a gourmand note of vanilla infused caramel, melded with warming sandalwood, and a touch of mysterious musk and cistus labdanum.

Dolce & Gabbana Eau de Parfum - Desire - Fragrance Notes

Notes: Mandarin, Lychee, Bergamot, Lily, Tuberose, Jasmine, Plum Nectar, Caramel, Sandalwood, Musk, Labdanum.
Style: Feminine. Luxurious. Seductive.

Dolce & Gabbana Desire is my new favorite perfume from the brand, right beside my other favorite - Light Blue. Desire is a deeper, richer fragrance, and to me this is a mix of Light Blue and The One. Desire has a spicy fruitiness from the bergamot, mandarin, and lychees and a creamy caramely sweetness that, unlike The One, is not cloyingly sweet. Like most musky-woody scents do, Desire lasts pretty much the whole day on me. Dolce & Gabbana Desire is a slightly heavier fragrance, but it is definitely something I could wear any time of the year! Give this a try if a warm, spicy fragrance with a hint of sweetness sounds like your kind of perfume.

Dolce & Gabbana The One Eau de Parfum - Ingredients

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Scenerio (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatches, Review, FOTD

2013-05-15T23:33:00.000-07:00

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine lipstick Scenario, described as a brownish red, is part of the Avant-Premiere de Chanel makeup collection. Like the other newly released Rouge Coco Shines from this collection, Scenario packs much more pigment than the older RCS but retains the same lip-friendly texture. The color is true to the color in the tube, opaque enough to cover my unevenly pigmented lips, yet looks and feels quite light on the lips. This is not a long-lasting finish, and the I get about 1 to 2 hours of wear-time with this lipstick. Scroll on for more photos.

Rouge Coco Shine - Scenario - Swatch

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Scenario - FOTD

Additional makeup used: NARS Tinted Moisturizer Annapurna
Chanel Brume d'Or Blush
Urban Decay Eyeliner Demolition
NARS Eyeshadow Bali

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Scenario - Ingredients

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Scenario is a rich, spicy reddish brown with a creamy, glossy finish. The color would be perfect for cooler autumn/winter months and for evenings. Chanel delivers on the quality, and the lipstick feels fabulous, but I think this would be an easy color to find less expensive dupes for.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Saga (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatch, Review, FOTD

2013-05-15T23:31:00.000-07:00

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine lipstick in Saga is described as a "cool pink" and is a limited edition release, part of the Avant-Premiere de Chanel makeup collection. With a focus on lips, the collection features new shades of Rouge Coco lipsticks as well as new Rouge Coco Shine lipsticks that pack a lot more pigment than the older versions while retaining their balmy texture. Saga is quite pigmented and goes on a bright, yet wearable pink on my lips. Some of the uneven pigmentation on my lips does show through, but it won't be a Rouge Coco Shine without that little sheerness to it, would it? The formula feels light and quite moisturizing on my lips, but it does tend to stick to and exaggerate any dry bits or flakes on the lips as it glides on. A gentle scrub before using this and/or applying with a lip brush should sort the issue (not noticed this with the other two RCS I tried). Scroll on for photos.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Saga
Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Saga - Swatch

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Saga
Additional Makeup: Face - NARS Tinted Moisturizer in Annapurna
Maybelline Dream LumiTouch Highlighting Concealer in Honey
Burberry Blush - Hydrangea Pink
Eyes - Urban Decay Eyeliner Sabbath smudged along lashline
Brown eyeshadow over eyelid from Dior Grege palette

Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick in Saga - Ingredients

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine lipstick in Saga is a definite must-have from this collection. The color is a perfect pick for summers, and the formula feels and looks quite light on the lips. The Rouge Coco Shines are not long-lasting lipsticks, and I get about 1 to 2 hours of wear-time with this color.

Hakuhodo Makeup Brushes: Large Pointed Yachiyo, J5533, and J5523

2013-05-15T23:19:00.001-07:00

Hakuhodo makeup brushes are some of the most raved about brushes on just about every makeup board/forum and quite a few blogs too. Hakuhodo manufactures brushes for some leading makup companies, but they also make their own range of makeup brushes and these are generally considered to be far superior to most other brands. These brushes are handmade in Japan with a careful selection process that uses ultra-soft, uncut (in case of natural fiber brushes) hair, and for the quality and care that goes into the manufacturing these brushes, some of them are quite reasonably priced too! The only drawback - to me - is that there is no store for me to go into and look before buying. I finally gave into temptation and bought 3 brushes - for now.

I picked the Large Pointed Yachiyo (similar to the NARS Yachiyo) which is part of their traditional Japanese series of brushes and two eyeshadow brushes from their J-series - the tapered J533 (comparable to the MAC 217, I think) and a flatter J5523. All three brushes are goat-hair brushes.

I cannot believe I waited so long to buy these. The brushes feel beyond-amazing-dreamy soft, so much so that I had to put them away in a box and hide them from myself so I stop brushing my face with these!! The Yachiyo did have a bit of a smell to it, but I noticed it only because I was looking for it and not really obvious while using. Hopefully, that will disappear with use/wash, though I don't really care about it too much.

Definitely getting more brushes - and oh, don't go by the no-frills website - the customer service is the most prompt I have seen so far and truly quite helpful.

Sneak Peek Vol. 10: Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection - Lipsticks - Photos and Swatches

2013-05-14T22:32:00.000-07:00

This years seems to be quite a busy one on the Chanel beauty front with a lot of small collections being released through the year. Close on the heels of the Chanel Summer 2013 (L'ete Papillon de Chanel) Makeup Collection comes the Chanel Avant-Premiere collection. This makeup collection focuses on the lips and includes, along with a couple of new Rouge Coco lipsticks and 3 new nail polishes, the new, improved, extra-pigmented Rouge Coco Shines. There are about 8 new shades of the Rouge Coco Shines and 6 new Rouge Coco lipsticks. I did not buy everything in this collection, but here's a sneak peek of what I did pick up.

Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection

Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection
Rouge Coco Shine Lipsticks

Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection
Rouge Coco Shine Lipsticks
Suspense - Pearl fuschia (shimmer)
Synopsis - Brown rose
Saga - Cool pink
Fiction - Pomegranate red with gold shimmer

Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection
Rouge Coco Shine Lipsticks
Synopsis - Brown rose with silvery shimmer
Saga - Cool pink
Fiction - Pomegranate red with gold shimmer
Scenario - Reddish brown

Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection
Rouge Coco Shine Lipsticks - Swatches

Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection
Rouge Coco Lipsticks - Grace and Ce Soir

Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection
Rouge Coco Lipsticks - Swatches
Grace - Copper redwood
Ce Soir - Plum brown

It's a bit of a risk whenever I buy makeup without swatching or trying out the products, and I have a not-so-small pile of lipsticks that I don't reach for all that very often. This time, I did a bit of research before buying and some asking around (thank you, Sandhya!), and I am quite happy with everything I picked up. From what I have tried so far, the new Rouge Coco Shines are just amazing. Like Rouge Coco Pygmalion from the summer 2013 makeup collection, these too pack enough pigment to show up on my lips while retaining the glossy, hydrating feel of the old RCS. Some of these RCS do have shimmer in them, but as always, Chanel does shimmer like nobody else can! It just adds to the glossiness and shine without ever showing up as chunky shimmer. I do want to get the other lipsticks from this collection - the lighter pinks and corals - but I will have to wait a bit until the collection launches in stores here in the US (should be any time now, I think).

Color Me Loud has awesome swatches and info regarding the Avant-Premiere makeup collection (I picked up the shade descriptions from here). Here's a link the posts:
Collection Avant Premiere de Chanel - Info
Five new Rouge Coco Shines - Ingenue, Interlude, Fiction, Scenario, Dialogue
Complete Review of Rouge Coco Lipsticks - Sentiment, Liaison, Ce Soir, Grace, Amant, Le Blaiser

Love, Chloe Eau de Parfum

2013-05-14T00:58:00.000-07:00

Love, Chloé is a celebration of radiant, generous, and spontaneous femininity. Its fine, powdery scent is contagious, a beauty that is free and graceful.
Fragrance Notes: Orange Blossom, Pink Pepper, Iris, Lilac, Hyacinth, Wisteria Blossom, Powdery Musks, Talc, Rice Powder.
Style: Light. Sensual. Iridescent.

Love Chloe Eau de Parfum

My bottle of Love Chloe Eau de Parfum was part of a sampler set. The original/regular-size bottles are sprays.

Love, Chloe Eau de Parfum is a light, powdery floral - a very light rose - with a brightness from the orange blossom and pink pepper. As the fragrance settles into the skin, the powdery musk notes open up adding a creaminess to the perfume. Love, Chloe with it's powdery rose notes is not my favorite perfume, mostly because I do not particularly care for rose-based fragrances, but I do appreciate how this makes for the perfect summer fragrance. The notes are light and soothing, and despite being a milder perfume, it holds up quite well in the summer heat, lasting the whole day even on my dry skin! While it is quite a subtle/safe perfume, it manages to stay away from being bland. Love, Chloe might be a good pick if you are looking for a soft perfume that works just as easily for a casual lunch as it would for a romantic dinner.

The Body Shop Slanted Eyeliner Brush

2013-05-13T23:05:00.001-07:00

TBS makeup brushes strike a good balance between quality and affordability (especially with their frequent sales), and they definitely are a favorite with me. The TBS Slanted brush is one of my more recent purchases. I rarely go without a liner along my lash line, and this angled eyeliner is perfect for a soft line with an eyeshadow or a pencil. Like all of The Body Shop makeup brushes, this too features soft, cruelty-free, synthetic fibers and can be used with powder as well as cream products. I find the TBS makeup brushes quite durable - my oldest ones are about 4 or 5 years old now without even the slightest bit of damage - and so far, I have found this slanted brush just as good. Scroll on for photos.

How to Use the Bodyshop Slanted Eyeliner Brush

Generally, angled eyeliner brushes are used for application along the lash line, and I find them slightly more forgiving than pointed/fine eyeliner brushes. Some also are good for filling in eyebrows in short, feathery strokes. TBS angled brush has a slightly wider head and the brush fibers are longer and more flexible for use as an eyebrow filler brush ( which TBS recommends this for either). From the Body Shop website: Line the lower lashes using short, light sweeping strokes along the outer line of the eye, underneath the lower lashes. Use long, thick sweeping strokes to blend color over the eye. Apply Liquid Eyeliner to the end of the brush and lightly dab along the lash line.

I use the TBS Slanted Eyeliner brush mainly with powder eye shadows, using the brush to press the shadow along the lashline. This brush can also be used for smudging pencil eyeliner along the lash line. I have never used this brush for a liquid liner - mostly because I do not use liquid liners and prefer a pointed brush for gel liners. The synthetic fibers on this brush are quite soft and never irritate the sensitive skin along my lashline. Caring for the brush is easy - I use a regular shampoo to wash and then lay the brush to dry overnight. While an angled eyeliner brush might not be the first makeup brush I would run out and buy, the TBS slanted eyeliener brush is definitely an essential in my regular makeup routine. Pick this up (especially during the sales) if you are looking for a dependable brush to add to you kit. Skip if you are looking for an eyebrow brush.

MORE MAKEUP BRUSH REVIEWS:
7 Eye Makeup Brushes You Really Need
Ecotools Day-To-Night 6-piece Makeup Brush Set
TBS Extra Virgin Mineral Foundations Powder Kabuki Brush
Body Shop Blender Brush - Eye Makeup
MAC DuoFiber Stippling Brush - 187
MAC Cosmetics Makeup Brush Cleanser
ELF Studio Powder Brush
Ecotools Retactable Kabuki Brush
Ecotools Eyeshadow Brushes Set
The Body Shop Travel/Mini Makeup Brush Set
TBS Kabuki Bronzing Makeup Brush

Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow Camouflage 477 - Photos, Swatch, Review, FOTD

2013-05-02T23:57:00.000-07:00

Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow in Camouflage 477 (available here) - $29

I picked up the Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadows a while back when they were launched, and while I used them quite a bit, I never did get around to reviewing them. I hope to cover the few that I have over the next couple of posts, but never know - it won't be the first time I have been lazy :P On to the Diorshow Mono Eyeshadows - these new single eyeshadows from Dior "boast a unique wet/dry formula for a custom and professional finish." Available in matte, satin, and metallic finishes, these eyeshadows come packaged in elegant Dior packaging. Included in each compact is a generous-sized mirror and 2 sponge applicators. These shadows can be used with a dry brush for a softer look or a damp applicator for more intense color. Of course, I am paranoid about the shadows getting ruined, so I don't use these wet. Camouflage (477) is a dark army green with fine shimmer in it and leans a bit cool. The shimmer is not that obvious on swatches, but it does show up quite beautifully on the eyes. Scroll on for photos.

While labeled as wet/dry eyeshadows, the Dior Mono Eyeshadows do differ quite a bit in terms of how much they change when used wet compared to dry. Camouflage, for instance, looks almost the same used either way. I do think while swatching, using the shadow wet gives a more even texture, but when patted on to the eye, especially over a sticky base like a primer/eyeliner, the shadow looks just as intense when used dry. Camouflage is described as a dark army green with fine shimmer. The swatch below is the shadow swatched dry, but I had just moisturized my hand, so the color did stick on to my skin better. On my eyes, I applied the eyeshadow with a dry brush.

Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow - Camouflage - Swatch

Wearing Dior Camouflage on my eyes.Smashbox Onyx black eyeliner along lower waterline and smudged along upper lashline.
Lips: Givenchy Brun Createur lipstick topped with Chanel Envolee gloss.

I love olive-greens, and Dior Camouflage has definitely been one of my most used shadows ever since I bought it. The eyeshadow is quite pigmented, and it is easy to blend with absolutely no fall-out. The shimmer is fine and quite subtle, and while I might not pick this shadow for a bright summer day, it's a lovely shade to have for the duller months and for the evenings. Overall, a winner!

Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow - Camouflage 477 - Ingredients

Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow - Camouflage - Ingredients

Chanel Nail Polish Azure - L'ete Papillon De Chanel Summer 2013 Makeup Collection - Photos, Review, NOTD

2013-05-02T22:49:00.000-07:00

Chanel Le Vernis Azure (available here) - $27

Classic and trend-defining shades from the runways of Paris. State-of-the-art formula strengthens and moisturizes nails as it delivers long-wearing, high-shine, chip-resistant colour. Applies evenly without streaking. All Chanel nail products are formaldehyde-free, toluene-free and DBP-free.

Chanel Azure is among the three nail colors in the newly launched L'ete Papillon De Chanel makeup collection for summer 2013. Of all the colors, this complex blue-green nail polish best captures the vibrant spirit of the collection. This is a bright, metallic teal that flashes a different color depending on the light - going from a metallic green-teal to a blue and a vibrant turquoise at other times. This everchanging, complex color is what really sets Azure apart. I found it quite impossible to photograph, and these photos are the best I could come up with.

As with my photos of the polish in the bottle, on my nails too, I could only capture a bit of the color that Azure really is. This bright blue-green is just one dimension in this chameleon-like color! The formula is a breeze to apply and has the perfect opaque finish at 2 coats - I added a third, and I really shouldn't have.

This lovely blue-green metallic color seems to already be quite a hit going by the reviews I have read online. If you had to pick between this and Bel-Argus, you could easily just pick Azure since looks almost blue under some lights! I have never been a fan of metallic finishes, and the greenish blue color seems to make the dark pigmentation around my nails much more prominent, so unfortunately, Azure isn't going to be on my list of "favorite Chanel nail polishes." If you like metallics with duochrome finishes, definitely do give Chanel Azure a try - it's unique and truly what Chanel nail polishes are all about. I am adding in links to some reviews on Chanel Azure by bloggers who have managed to do a better job at photos and comparisons:

Sabrina from The Beauty Look Book - lovely photos against the perfect backdrop and as always comparisons with similar colors.
ChaHeVu: My favorite nail polish blog with some fabulous photos.
My Lucite Dreams - Chanel Azure is the perfect pick for a summer pedi!

Chanel Azure Nail Polish - L'ete Papillon De Chanel Summer 2013 Makeup - Ingredients

MORE FROM THE L'ETE DE CHANEL SUMMER 2013 MAKEUP COLLECTION:
Chanel Metamorphose Eyeshadow Quad
Chanel Nail Polish Bel-Argus
Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Pygmalion
Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Idylle

Chanel Metamorphose - Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quad - L'Été Papillon de Chanel Summer 2013 - Photos, Review, Swatches, FOTD

2013-04-29T23:34:00.000-07:00

Chanel Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quad - Metamorphose (available here) - $59

One essential compact offers unlimited eye looks, with shade combinations that range from matte to satin to shimmer. Versatile smudge-proof formula can be applied dry for subtle shading, or dampened for more intense colour, all with long-wearing results -- in even extreme climates. Dermatologist tested. Chanel Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quad in Metamorphose is part of theL'Été Papillon de Chanel makeup collection for summer 2013.

On my eyes: Chanel Metamorphose Eyeshadow Quad
Used the pale teal (upper left) shadow all over lids.
Darker blue (lower right) shadow used on outer corner and along lashline.
(Scroll down for additional makeup details.)

Metamorphose is a limited edition eyeshadow quad - part of the L'Été Papillon de Chanel Summer 2013 makeup collection. The blues and green that are such a predominant part of this nature-inspired (specifically, butterflies) collection show up in this quad too. This eyeshadow quad is a bit different in that the eyeshadows are baked - not the usual powder versions that are sold in the US, but this version is common in other parts of the world, like back home in India. Perhaps to help differentiate, the individual eyeshadows are round, not the usual squares. Enoughhhhh about the dull details - scroll on for a closer look at the quad.

Chanel Metamorphose Eyeshadow Quad - L'Été Papillon de Chanel Summer 2013
That little plastic cover goes on the shadows. Keep that safe 'cos the shadows
tend to fly around and can create quite a mess all over the quad.
Also included with the eyeshadows are 2 sponge applicators.

The eyeshadows in this quad are all quite soft and pigmented with a pearlescent-shimmery finish. No matte shade in this quad which might be a bit of a disappointment to some. On to the texture of the shadows: The colors are all quite true to what you see in the pan and soft and pigmented - on swatches. That doesn't necessarily translate to the eyelids. Using a brush to apply these, like one would with regular eyeshadow, just gives a patchy/sheer application, and the colors disappear in no time from the eyelids. It is better to use a slightly dampened brush to apply these, but I feel the moisture on the eyeshadows is eventually going to cause them to harden and maybe even spoil faster (that's just my opinion). I use my fingers to apply them - this is my personal makeup, and I sanitize my fingers before touching the makeup - patting them on to the lids and using a brush only around the edges and with a very, very light touch. None of that windshield wiper/buffing around in circles and whatever else it is that the YouTube gurus teach :P :P Also, some color does end up falling from finger/brush on to my undereye area, so I do my eye makeup first and the base makeup (or at least the concealer) following that. Anyway, here's a look at the swatches:

Chanel Eyeshadow Quad Metamorphose - L'Été Papillon de Chanel Summer 2013
Swatches (starting from top left and going anticlockwise)
These eyeshadows have been swatched dry, but I had just moisturized my hand so the shadows stick on to the skin better, almost similar to how they would be if used wet or over a sticky base like a paint pot or pencil eyeliner. Dry swatches look similar but a little more powdery.

On my eyes: Chanel Eyeshadow Quad in Metamorphose
Used the yellowish-green shade (lower left) all over lid.
Dark blue (lower right) slightly dampened and used as a liner - thicker at outer corner.
Additional makeup used: Eyes: Smashbox Onyx black eyeliner along waterline/tightline.
Chanel Inimitable Intense Mascara in Black
Face: NARS Tinted Moisturizer in Annapurna/Concealer - YSL Touche Eclat 4.5
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Topaz and Chanel Joues Contraste Espiegle
Lips: Givenchy Brun Createur lipstick topped with Chanel Glossimer Envoulee

If you stuck through my long rant about what not to like about these eyeshadows, well here's the "hit" part of it - I do like the colors, and used over an appropriate base - primer and/or an eyeliner - the colors do stick around the whole day. I also like that I can control the application - sheerer for a softer day time look and layering on for a more vibrant look, perhaps for later on in the day. I liked the quad enough to not send it back to Chanel (and they have free returns), but I definitely won't recommend this if you haven't tried one of these before, and if you are new to Chanel, the single eyeshadows are the best. Metamorphose is only available at Chanel online (in the US), but you could always check the texture of any of the other baked quads in store before deciding on buying this.

Metamorphose is not that unique in its color combinations, epecially if you have some of the older Chanel quads. Here's a look at the two that I have - Lagons and Bird of Paradise - and I already have similar colors in both of these. I suspect Lilium (reviewed HERE by The Non Blonde) might supply the greenish-yellow color in this quad. Here's a look at the quads and some swatches:

Chanel Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quads - Comparisons
Lagons, Bird of Paradise, and Metamorphose (all baked versions)

Chanel Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quads - Comparisons
Metamorphose, Bird of Paradise, Lagons
The shadows are swatched dry - on dry skin - hence the powdery/patchy texture.

Chanel Eyeshadow Quad - Metamorphose - Ingredients

More from the L'Été Papillon de Chanel Summer 2013 Makeup Collection:
Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion
Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Idylle
Chanel Le Vernis - Bel-Argus

Burt's Bees Shea and Honey Sugar Scrub

2013-04-28T22:21:00.000-07:00

Burt's Bees Honey and Shea Sugar Scrub (available here) - $13.00

When your skin—or life—starts to feel a little dull, polish your body with this delectably indulgent sugar scrub. Humming with the warm scent of Honey and Shea, Ground Almonds and Aloe Leaf Juice combine to gently scrub skin smooth. Leaving your skin irresistibly smooth and oh-so soft. It’s the simple way to brighten both your skin and day. Indulges skin with Sugar, Honey and Shea Butter scent, scrubs and smoothes then softens with Almonds and Aloe Leaf Juice, exfoliates with Ground Almonds and Sugar.

Burt's Bees Shea and Honey Sugar Scrub

I am convinced I have the craziest skin ever - it's dry all over my body and so prone to getting all oily and acne-d on my face. I can never figure out how that works, but I am not complaining too much - it's just another excuse to stock up on lotions and potions! To sort out the dry bits and corners, I love trying out body butters and scrubs, and Burt's Bees Honey and Shea Sugar Scrub with coconut oil, shea butter, almond oil and the scrubby power of sugar and almonds is my new skincare favorite. This scrub comes in a wide-mouthed tub and would last me about 2 weeks if I were to use this daily (I don't - about twice a week at the most). To keep the product clean, I use a dry spoon to scoop out the scrub and take care not to get any water into the product. The scrub itself is a brownish, wet (with oil), sugary mixture with a few scattered specks - not sure what they are, probably almond skin.

This sweet-smelling scrub looks a little dryish in the tub, but I find the sugar-oil ratio just right when used on slightly damp skin. The mixture is a little crumbly, and bits do tend to fall off as I am applying this, but it's not so much that I find it unnecessary wastage. This a gentle scrub, but I find this a little harsh if used with too much pressure and/or on dry skin. The scrub is easy to wash off and leaves behind a slight oily residue on the skin. Normal skin types can skip a moisturizer afterwards, but I have superdry skin, and by the time I am done toweling, I don't mind a little extra lotion just to seal in the moisture. I do use this as an all-over body scrub, but I don't stick to a regular routine with it (too lazy), and I use this more often as a foot scrub. With just one use, I found my feet smoother and moisturized enough to continue using this on an almost daily basis. Needless to say - happy feet ever since! :D

Overall, the Burt's Bees Shea and Honey Sugar Scrub is a fabulous drugstore buy, especially if you are looking for products with natural skincare ingredients. I use this as a body/hand/foot scrub and always assumed that's what this is, but I have read reviews where people use this on the face. I have oily-combination/sensitive skin on my face, and personally, at least for me, I would think this is too harsh and perhaps a bit too oily for use on the face. Because of the oil content in the scrub, it can leave the bathtub/bathroom floors a little slippery, and I have to soap-clean the bathtub after I am done - and that's the one big reason why I don't use the scrub more often :P

Burt's Bees Shea and Honey Sugar Scrub - Ingredients

MORE FROM BURT'S BEES:
Burt's Bees Nourishing Lip Balm with Mango Butter
Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil
Burt's Bees Super Shiny Grapefruit and Sugar Beet Shampoo and Conditioner
Burt's Bees Hand Salve
Burt's Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme
Burt's Bees Soap Bark and Chamomile Deep Cleansing Cream
Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes with White Tea Extract
Burt's Bees Peppermint Foot Lotion
Burt's Bees Naturally Nourishing Milk and Honey Body Lotion
Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm in a Tin

Chanel Le Vernis Bel-Argus 667 - L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013

2013-04-28T01:42:00.000-07:00

Chanel Le Vernis Bel-Argus (available here) - $27

Chanel Nail Polish Bel Argus 667

L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013

Chanel Le Vernis in Bel-Argus (667) is one of the three limited edition nail polish colors released as part of the L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013. This collection features bright, vibrant colors inspired by butterflies, and the nail colors are perhaps the best reflection of the theme. Bel-Argus is a vibrant, deep blue that flashes to a bright, electric blue as it catches the light. This is definitely a metallic shade and not one I would recommend if your favorite color in the world is a pastel pink. The formula is fantastic for a metallic shade like this, and while my clumsy oaf application means some brush strokes will show through, anyone with a steady hand and better skills would find it quite easy to get a flawless finish. Two coats are perfect for a smooth, opaque finish, but the polish does need a good half an hour, at least, of drying time to ensure no accidental dents later on (though it feels dry to touch sooner). Scroll on for more photos.

Chanel Bel-Argus is a bright, bold color - a vivid blue that is just a tiny bit out of my comfort zone. Oddly though, I like it. I loved it in the bottle, and I like it on my nails. This won't be the sort of color that I would wear to lunch with my parents - my mom would hate it and would never stop telling me that - and definitely not a color that would be flattering under the cold white fluorescent lighting in an office, but Bel-Argus would be an easy way to add a pop of color on a bright summer day. It's like a bright pink lipstick or the little flick of a winged liner, but so much easier since it's on my hands. Of course, my husband hates this color, second only to yellow (which he REALLY hates)!

Chanel Nail Polish Bel-Argus (667) - L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013 - Ingredients

Chanel Nail Polish Bel Argus 667 - Ingredients

L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013

MORE FROM THE L'ETE PAPILLON DE CHANEL MAKEUP COLLECTION:
Chanel Rouge Coco Shine - Idylle
Chanel Rouge Coco Shine - Pygmalion

Kate Walsh The Boyfriend Eau de Parfum (Sampler Review)

2013-04-28T01:36:00.000-07:00

Kate Walsh Boyfriend and Billionaire Boyfriend Eau de Parfum (available here) - You don't need a boyfriend to have Boyfriend, the new fragrance created by "Private Practice" star Kate Walsh. Inspired by the longing felt for her boyfriend's warm scent, Boyfriend combines muguet, dark plum, myrrh, and night blooming jasmine to create a seductive floral fragrance. Topped off with amber and woody musk, this intoxicating scent includes all the notes that make your eyes roll — just like him.


Kate Walsh Fragrances Image source: www.sephora.com

Kate Walsh Perfumes - Billionaire Boyfriend and Boyfriend
Eau de Parfum Spray - Samples from Sephora

This is yet another sampler review thanks to the stockpile of Sephora samplers that I have. I have never been a huge fan of celebrity perfumes. They just seem like hyped, hastily-thought-out mixtures made just to cash in on some celebrity's moment of fame. True, there are some that get good reviews (SJP), but I have my doubts on how much time, effort, and personal connection a celebrity really does have with what is touted as his/her perfume. Anyway, moving on to the Kate Walsh fragrance, here's an extract from the marketing story: Actress Kate Walsh wanted to capture the scent of a guy on a girl: a man's cologne mixed with perfume, the smell that lingers on the skin. This fragrance evokes memories of that time after he has left for the day when she gently awakes in a bed that's still warmly redolent of "boyfriend."

To start with, I really, really do not like the name (or the story that goes with it). Boyfriend is odd enough, and then there is Billionaire Boyfriend! Putting aside my issues with the name, and I agree I am kind of weird that way, I do like the Billionaire Boyfriend (:P :P) and have used up quite a few vials. I would label this an winter/evening perfume - a heavier floral-oriental fragrance that smells wayy more sophisticated than I had imagined it to be. This is nicely rounded perfume with no harsh notes, and while it is a stronger fragrance, I do not find it too overbearing. The staying power isn't too bad, lasts almost the whole day on my skin, softening down with woody notes as it dries down. The Boyfriend (minus the money), on the other hand, I don't like. It seems to me like a subdued/watered-down version of Angel with a cloying sweetness to it. The smell doesn't last very long on my skin, and that's about the only good thing I have to say about this fragrance. This does seem to be the more popular version, though, going by the reviews on Sephora, and I much prefer the glass bottle packaging of this perfume to the blingy, metal one of the billionaire.

I don't like either of these Boyfriends enough to buy a full size bottle, but between the two I prefer the Billionaire - now, if only they would change the name to something a little less cheesy!

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - Review, Photos, Swatches, FOTD (L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013)

2013-04-26T23:47:00.001-07:00

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Pygmalion (available here) - $34

The next chapter in the brilliant Rouge Coco Shine story: Rouge Coco Shine Hydrating Colour Lipshine, an innovative formula with intensified pigments to take colour and sheen to a new level of vibrancy. Sheer, shiny, colour-rich shades are effortlessly chic, infinitely wearable. Hydratendre Complex softens and plumps lips for a healthier, fuller appearance.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Pygmalion is part of the newly released L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013. While the collection focuses predominantly on the eyes with a new range of cream eyeshadow sticks and an eyeshadow quad, it also features two limited edition shades of Rouge Coco Shines - the hydrating, sheer lip colors from Chanel - Pygmalion and Idylle. Pygmalion is described as a sheer raspberry, and while it does look pretty much that way in the tube, the color sheers to a lovely, warm coral pink on application. The formula is superbly moisturizing - much better than a lot of lip balms I have tried. Scroll on for photos, swatches, and more.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - Swatches/FOTD
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Pygmalion is a warm pink with hints of coral-red to it. Because it is a sheer lip color, the underlying natural lip color does affect the color that ultimately shows through. On my lips, this leans more pink, but this might look more coral on lighter lips. Pygmalion is quite pigmented for an RCS, and it leaves behind a pretty tint on the lips even after the glossy sheer color wears off. I get about 1 to 2 hours of wear with the Rouge Coco Shines, but my lips feel fabulous the whole day long! Pygmalion is a definite must-have (and perhaps a backup) from the L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - Ingredients
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Idylle 457 - Review, Photos, Swatches, FOTD - (L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013)

2013-04-26T23:33:00.000-07:00

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Idylle (available here) - $34

Rouge Coco Shine Hydrating Colour Lipshine is an innovative formula with intensified pigments to take colour and sheen to a new level of vibrancy. Sheer, shiny, colour-rich shades are effortlessly chic, infinitely wearable. Hydratendre Complex softens and plumps lips for a healthier, fuller appearance. Idylle is part of the L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Idylle is a limited edition color released as part of the newly launched summer 2013 makeup collection - L'Ete Papillon de Chanel. This collection draws inspiration from the vibrant colors of butterflies and features some bright, summer colors. Idylle, though, is an exception. This is a soft peach color, and being a Rouge Coco Shine, Idylle is also very sheer. It looks a pale peach when swatched quite heavily on my hands and translates to almost colorless on my lips, leaving just a barely there milky wash of color. As I was taking photos for this post, I noticed some slight shimmmer in the lipstick, but it's hardly anything and definitely nonexistent on swatches. Scroll on for photos, swatches, and more.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine - Idylle - Swatches/FOTD
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

As I mentioned earlier with Rouge Coco Shine in Idylle, there really is nothing to show in terms of color payoff on my lips. I have very pigmented lips, and this is definitely not the sort of color I should be picking. On someone with lighter/clearer lips, I guess Idylle would be a lovely soft hint of peach and a perfect pick for a no-makeup look. The formula is beyond fabulous in terms of hydration and is far superior to so many lip balms I have tried. In fact, that's just how I will be using Idylle - as a very posh lip balm! For me, this is a color I shouldn't have bothered buying.

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Idylle - Ingredients
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013

Maybelline Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

2013-04-26T00:53:00.000-07:00

Maybelline Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover - Go from Fierce to Fresh-Faced...Fast! Oil-free, dual phase formula leaves no greasy residue. Quick dissolving power with no harsh rubbing. Revolutionary quickbreak formula instantly removes even the most stubborn makeup. Dual-phase formula breaks up even longwear and waterproof makeup, and removes instantly. Oil-free. Ophthalmologist tested. Allergy tested. Safe for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes. For best results, shake well. Apply with a cotton pad or tissue, then wipe across closed lids and lashes to remove eye makeup. Gently rinse with warm water.

I have been using the Maybelline Clean Express Makeup Remover for a while and almost forgot about reviewing it until now. This is a biphase makeup remover - translation, there are two layers of liquid in this floating over each other, and you need to give the bottle a good shake and ensure this is mixed before use. I use this as directed, dispensing a generous amount on to a cotton square, holding it in place to let the makeup soak a bit, and then sliding it off and taking off the makeup.

The Maybelline Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover does an awesome job of removing my eye makeup. I don't use much waterproof makeup, and the only product that I can test this claim on is UD Glide-On eyeliner. Maybelline Clean Express has no difficulty that that off. I do find this a gentle/mild product, and I would recommend just holding the cotton square soaked in the remover pressed on the lids just for a teeny bit so the makeup gets soaked and slides off easier, instead of trying to rub the makeup out. This does leave a bit of an oily residue, and sometimes it can accidentally get into my eyes and cause an oily irritating film - but I haven't had any eye irritation with this so far, and everything gets washed away easily when I wash my face. This would definitely be my pick for a good drugstore eye makeup remover.

Maybelline Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover - Ingredients

Yves Saint Laurent Saharienne Heat Summer 2013 Makeup Collection - Swatches Only

2013-04-26T00:26:00.001-07:00

Yves Saint Laurent Saharienne Heat Summer Look 2013 Makeup Collection (available here) - Between sky and sand, a subtle mix of violet, coral and scintillating bronze glimmer in the twilight of the Saharan Desert. Dazzling sun rays fall upon the YSL woman like a golden caress across her tanned body.

Yves Saint Laurent Saharienne Heat
Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Image source: shop.nordstrom.com

Yves Saint Laurent Pure Chromatics Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Wet Dry Eyeshadow Palette - No 13 and No. 20 - Swatches

Yves Saint Laurent Pure Chromatics Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Wet Dry Eyeshadow Palette - No 13 and No. 20
Product Image Source: shop.nordstrom.com

Yves Saint Laurent Pure Chromatics Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Wet Dry Eyeshadow Palette - No 20 - Swatches

Yves Saint Laurent Pure Chromatics Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Wet Dry Eyeshadow Palette - No 13 - Swatches

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain - Swatches
14 Fuchsia Dore and 31 Corail Alla Prima

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain - 14 Fuchsia Dore and 31 Corail Alla Prima
Product Image Source: shop.nordstrom.com

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain - Swatches
14 Fuchsia Dore and 31 Corail Alla Prima

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Terre Saharienne Bronzing Powder - Swatches
No. 10 Terre Ambree, No. 20 Terre Ocree, No. 30 Halee

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Terre Saharienne Bronzing Powder
No. 10 Terre Ambree, No. 20 Terre Ocree, No. 30 Halee
Product Image Source: shop.nordstrom.com

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Terre Saharienne Bronzing Powder - Swatches
No. 10 Terre Ambree, No. 20 Terre Ocree, No. 30 Halee

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
La Laque Couture Nail Lacquer - Swatches
14 Violine Surrealiste, 36 Vert D'Orient, 37 Taupe Mauresque

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
La Laque Couture Nail Lacquer
36 Vert D'Orient, 14 Violine Surrealiste, 37 Taupe Mauresque
Product Image Source: shop.nordstrom.com

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
La Laque Couture Nail Lacquer - Swatches
36 Vert D'Orient, 14 Violine Surrealiste, 37 Taupe Mauresque

All swatches taken under natural lighting - no flash. Product images from shop.nordstrom.com. Swatches are mine. Links provided for information only and are NOT affiliate links.

Makeup Blog | Beauty | Skincare | Perfume Reviews | Weekend Ramblings

Ecotools Retractable Kabuki Brush (New)

Ecotools Retractable Kabuki Brush - $7.99

Alba Botanica Papaya Mango Body Cream

Alba Botanica Papaya Mango Body Cream (available here) - $13.99

A Quick Makeup Tip for Indian Summer: Ditch that Black Liner!

Chanel Nail Polish - Lilis - L'ete Papillon de Chanel Sumer 2013 Makeup Collection

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour Lilis (available here) - $27

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Color - Lilis (647) - Ingredients

Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick - Grace (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatch, FOTD, Review

Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick - Grace - Ingredients

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 (available here) - $22.50

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 - Ingredients

Avon SuperExtend Infinitize Mascara

Avon SuperExtend Infinitize Mascara (available here) - $9.50

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatches, Review, FOTD

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis - Swatch

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis - FOTD

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Synopsis - Ingredients

Dolce and Gabbana Desire Eau de Parfum

Dolce & Gabbana Eau de Parfum - Desire - Fragrance Notes

Dolce & Gabbana The One Eau de Parfum - Ingredients

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Scenerio (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatches, Review, FOTD

Rouge Coco Shine - Scenario - Swatch

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Scenario - FOTD

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Scenario - Ingredients

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Saga (Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection) - Photos, Swatch, Review, FOTD

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Saga Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Saga - Swatch

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - SagaAdditional Makeup: Face - NARS Tinted Moisturizer in AnnapurnaMaybelline Dream LumiTouch Highlighting Concealer in HoneyBurberry Blush - Hydrangea PinkEyes - Urban Decay Eyeliner Sabbath smudged along lashlineBrown eyeshadow over eyelid from Dior Grege palette

Hakuhodo Makeup Brushes: Large Pointed Yachiyo, J5533, and J5523

Sneak Peek Vol. 10: Chanel Avant-Premiere Makeup Collection - Lipsticks - Photos and Swatches

Love, Chloe Eau de Parfum

The Body Shop Slanted Eyeliner Brush

How to Use the Bodyshop Slanted Eyeliner Brush

Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow Camouflage 477 - Photos, Swatch, Review, FOTD

Dior Diorshow Mono Eyeshadow - Camouflage 477 - Ingredients

Chanel Nail Polish Azure - L'ete Papillon De Chanel Summer 2013 Makeup Collection - Photos, Review, NOTD

Chanel Le Vernis Azure (available here) - $27

Chanel Azure Nail Polish - L'ete Papillon De Chanel Summer 2013 Makeup - Ingredients

Chanel Metamorphose - Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quad - L'Été Papillon de Chanel Summer 2013 - Photos, Review, Swatches, FOTD

Chanel Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Quad - Metamorphose (available here) - $59

On my eyes: Chanel Metamorphose Eyeshadow QuadUsed the pale teal (upper left) shadow all over lids.Darker blue (lower right) shadow used on outer corner and along lashline. (Scroll down for additional makeup details.)

Chanel Eyeshadow Quad - Metamorphose - Ingredients

Burt's Bees Shea and Honey Sugar Scrub

Burt's Bees Honey and Shea Sugar Scrub (available here) - $13.00

Burt's Bees Shea and Honey Sugar Scrub - Ingredients

Chanel Le Vernis Bel-Argus 667 - L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013

Chanel Le Vernis Bel-Argus (available here) - $27

Chanel Nail Polish Bel-Argus (667) - L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013 - Ingredients

Kate Walsh The Boyfriend Eau de Parfum (Sampler Review)

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - Review, Photos, Swatches, FOTD (L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013)

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Pygmalion (available here) - $34

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - Swatches/FOTDL'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - IngredientsL'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Idylle 457 - Review, Photos, Swatches, FOTD - (L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013)

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Idylle (available here) - $34

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine - Idylle - Swatches/FOTDL'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Idylle - Ingredients L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013

Maybelline Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

Maybelline Clean Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover - Ingredients

Yves Saint Laurent Saharienne Heat Summer 2013 Makeup Collection - Swatches Only

Yves Saint Laurent Pure Chromatics Summer 2013 Makeup Collection Wet Dry Eyeshadow Palette - No 13 and No. 20 - Swatches

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain - Swatches 14 Fuchsia Dore and 31 Corail Alla Prima

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup CollectionTerre Saharienne Bronzing Powder - SwatchesNo. 10 Terre Ambree, No. 20 Terre Ocree, No. 30 Halee

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup CollectionLa Laque Couture Nail Lacquer - Swatches14 Violine Surrealiste, 36 Vert D'Orient, 37 Taupe Mauresque

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick in Saga
Avant-Premiere de Chanel Makeup Collection

On my eyes: Chanel Metamorphose Eyeshadow Quad
Used the pale teal (upper left) shadow all over lids.
Darker blue (lower right) shadow used on outer corner and along lashline.
(Scroll down for additional makeup details.)

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - Swatches/FOTD
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipstick - Pygmalion - Ingredients
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine - Idylle - Swatches/FOTD
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection for Summer 2013

Chanel Rouge Coco Shine in Idylle - Ingredients
L'Ete Papillon de Chanel Makeup Collection Summer 2013

Yves Saint Laurent Pure Chromatics Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Wet Dry Eyeshadow Palette - No 13 and No. 20 - Swatches

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Rouge Pur Couture Glossy Stain - Swatches
14 Fuchsia Dore and 31 Corail Alla Prima

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
Terre Saharienne Bronzing Powder - Swatches
No. 10 Terre Ambree, No. 20 Terre Ocree, No. 30 Halee

Yves Saint Laurent Summer 2013 Makeup Collection
La Laque Couture Nail Lacquer - Swatches
14 Violine Surrealiste, 36 Vert D'Orient, 37 Taupe Mauresque