Sale Alert: butter LONDON Friends & Family Sale

Today starts butter LONDON Friends & Family sale event and I highly suggest you take advantage! It's the perfect chance to stock up on a bunch of holiday gifts and stocking stuffer goodies for the coming holidays. 

 

 

Save 30% on your total purchase at checkout with promo code: FFHoliday.  Sale ends at 11:59 PST on November 3, 2013 so hurry and get shopping!

 

 

 

 

Retail: $18.00

 

You may also want to check out butter LONDON's recently launched brand new set of nail art tools designed to create the ultimate bespoke look on your own.  The Backstage Basics Nail Art Tool Kit includes a Dotting Tool, Striping Brush and Clean Up Brush.  They retail for $18.00 and you can check them out here.

 

What is your favorite butter LONDON product you plan to snag for the holidays?  Have you checked out their latest in holiday lacquers? Now's your chance!!

Review: Tibolli Hair Care

 

No matter the season, my hair is constantly thirsty for moisture, and with the winter months coming it only craves it more.  So I was pretty excited when I came across Tibolli hair care and even more psyched when I received a few samples. 

All Tibolli products contain their secret ingredient: Trioxxy™  which I was happy to learn is supposed to protect and repair hair.  It is a synergy of keratin proteins which revamps hair from within. Found only in Tibolli products worldwide, it uses HDS (Hydra Delivery System) technology to smooth and enhance hair texture. This delivery system allows each hair strand to be coated and sealed to lock in moisture and nourishment. Trioxxy's powerful proteins penetrate each hair strand, repairing damage and improving texture. This provides a strong protective shield to guard hair against future environmental and styling damage.

 

 

 

 

The Moisture Lust was the first product I tried and fell instantly in love with it.  It has a faint scent that is very sweet, but not overpowering.  You can apply it to wet or dry hair and I found it effective both ways.  I liked applying it after a shower because it acts as a great detangler and I've found that my wet hair holds the scent a little better.  After it dries my hair always feels soft and easier to brush out.  There was a period where I flat was flat ironing my hair pretty regularly and during those instances, I don't wash it as often because it takes so much work to restraighten.  I would spray this over it before bed and by morning I could see how it had revived my hair and kept it from looking dull.  I could also spray it one before running over it with the flat iron and it manages to keep the moisture locked in.  Its a strong moisture source and solid leave in treatment that doesn't weigh down your hair.  Its a simple, and even time efficient way to keep your hair hydrated. 

 

 

 

 

Next I tried the Tibolli Desired Hair Oil which turned out to have a lightweight formula but can quickly get heavy if you use too much.  I have long, super thick curls and a pea size amount turned out to be too much.  I preferred applying it to my freshly straightened locks and found it perfect for smoothing the fly aways.  I mixed it with a little hairspray in my hand and it held all the strays in place.  I liked the scent of this too (also sweet) and thought between the two products together, my hair felt silky with a salon like shine and bounce to it.

 

 

 

Have you tried Tibolli products?  What was your experience like?

 

 

 

I have to apologize beacuase I could not seem to find their price points but I am working on it and will post them asap!

 

Review: vbeaute Eye Never® - Anti Aging Eye Cream

 

As a girl who's still in her twenties (and hanging on for dear life) I don't take for granted that I am fortunate enough not to see any fine lines or wrinkles just yet.  But sadly, I haven't been so lucky as to avoid the slight but still visible raccoon circles and dull skin around my eyes.    

 

 

 

Retail: $18.00

 

I started using vbeaute's Eye Never® Nourishing Repair Eye Crème and it was one of those products that makes you wonder why haven't I been using this all along?  It is clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles in 30 days and while I couldn't really attest to that, I absolutely can state that I saw improvement in my under eyes in less then a week.  The dark circles had definitely diminished and most importantly, they became significantly hydrated.  Sometimes the outside corners get dry and a little flakey, but this helped rid my skin of the patchy areas. 

I was at an event where the makeup artist working on me had commented on them "aging".  (I'll just confirm your suspicion that I walked away annoyed and leave it at that).  But it made me realize I needed something really effective, and the Nourishing Repair Crème did a great job of restoring that youthful, healthy look.  Instead of appearing dull and tired, my skin looked brighter and less worn out.

 

One aspect I liked a lot was that it fully absorbed after patting it into my skin.  I've used so many eye creams that tend to sit on the surface and end up half dry and just sort of flake off and never really take effect.  It comes in a .27 fl oz squeeze tube, which should last at least a month.  I've been applying it twice a day for over a month now and still have a some left.  Overall, its a great remedy for aging or tired eyes and I plan to replace it once I run out.

 

 

Also:

- Paraben free, Gluten free, Fragrance free, Nut & Oat free
- Swiss Alpine Rose Botanical Technology. Made in Switzerland
- Dermatologist Tested. Not tested on animals

 

Are you in need of a reliable eye cream?  Do you think you will try vbeaute?

Review: the Aloe Source

 

 

At a recent Beauty Press event I came across a brand called the Aloe Source.  The name alone just screams "try me!".  As someone with fair, very sensitive skin, the line sounded almost too good to be true. 

 

The Aloe Source has an exclusive partnership with a farm that harvests organically-grown aloe without using herbicides and pesticides, utilizing a patented process to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the aloe plant. This patented process also removes aloin and aloe emodin, which are known toxins that the plant produces to defend itself in nature.

 

I went home with samples from the face care line including the Jojoba Radiance Cleansing Polish, Vitamin C Antioxidant Crème, and the Luminosity Masque.  These products combine stabilized aloe vera with other effective ingredients, such as peptides, vitamin C and plant stem cells, and are designed to treat a variety of skin concerns for all skin types.

 

 

I just have to say that I think this is the skincare line my skin has been waiting for.  I've been using it for well over a month now and have seen my complexion start to positively glow.  I've mentioned in the past that I'm usually on the tired side and it shows in my skin. But fortunately the Aloe Source has helped improve not just the overall coloring, but its texture is much softer, visibly hydrated and healthy looking. 

 

 

 

Retail: $30.00

 

The Jojoba Radiance Cleansing Polish has a light, sweet scent and an amazing lather.  You can use a dime size amount and still have suds left over.  It contains super small jojoba microbeads for a nice, gentle exfoliation.  (Between the pleasant scent and light massage they provide, the whole experience almost feels spa like).  I've been using this cleanser at least once everyday and haven't experienced one breakout or irritation.  It does a great job of removing the dead skin and makes it so much easier for my skin to absorb the moisturizer.

 

 

 

Retail: $40.00

 

After the cleanser, I apply the Vitamin Antioxidant Crème 

 

I.Love.This.Crème. 

 

The first time I used it, I could actually feel it continue working even after it was fully absorbed.  My skin felt moist and for a second, I almost thought I hadn't massaged it in completely.  It is packaged in a pump so you know there won't be any bacterial issues, and I like it because the bottle is clear so you can see how much you have left.  This has an ultra luxe texture to it.  Its creamy and rich but sinks right in without weighing heavy on your skin.  It too requires only a small amount during application.  Never again will I have those stubborn dry patches around my nose.  Moisturizers in the past have cleared them up temporarily and the second I stop using them, the patches come back.  But after using this, I feel pretty certain it will be a while before I see them return. 

 

 

 

Retail: $34.00

 

Also a favorite is the Luminosity Masque .  This I can't help but love because once again, it's very sanity.  Just remove the lid and press down to watch its contents disperse through the hole in its top.  This combines pineapple and papaya enzymes to exfoliate while aloe vera and willow herb extract calm and soothe.   This I would use once a week, and leave on for about 10 minutes after cleansing.  I am not sure of its exact effects, but I will say I enjoyed the feeling it left behind on my skin.  It has a cool, gel consistency which calms the skin, and feels nice after a long day.  It isn't sticky and after rinsing it off, my skin always feels smoother and refreshed. 

 

While I have been using all three products consistently and in conjunction with each other, I still feel like they would work wonders on their own.  Each one is super effective and the powers of aloe vera are not to be underestimated!  There are so many more products from this line that I'm just dying to try.  I strongly recommend checking them out. 

 

Have you tried the Aloe Source before?  Which products are you raving about?!

Halloween Looks by butter LONDON

Halloween is such an expressive holiday that gives your imagination the opportunity to literally run wild with creativity and have some fun with your looks.  This season butter LONDON has got you covered for all your holiday spirit needs with some festive nail looks and head turning makeup ideas. 

 

 

 

 

Celebrate the season’s hottest hues and most popular candy with Candy Corn Nails! Use butter LONDON Nail Lacquers in Silly Billy, Cotton Buds and Pimms ($15 each) for the perfect Candy Corn look.

 

How to:

1.) Begin with a layer of butter LONDON Nail Foundation followed by two layers of Nail Lacquer in Silly Billy

2.)  Next, add a coat of Nail Lacquer in Pimms to the tip of the nail and use a striping tool to add the white accent line 

3.) Finish the look with P.D. Quick Top

 

 

 

 

Make a vampy statement with looks that kill. Rock butter LONDON LIPPY Tinted Balm in Black Cherry or take the Halloween spirit to the next level with butter LONDON LIPPY Liquid Lipstick in Union Jack Black ($15).

 

“Dark lips are great for the fall months and can be pulled off by anyone. Fair skin to dark.” says Katie Jane Hughes, butter LONDON Global Colour Ambassador. “When wearing a dark lip keep your eyes and cheeks subtle and use soft eye shadows, blushes and mascaras to complete the look. Also, try layering butter LONDON WINK Eye Pencil in Brown Sugar underneath the LIPPY Tinted Balm in Black Cherry for a softer and warmer red.”

 

 

I'm quite a fan of butter LONDON makeup.  They're quality is really good and their packaging is adorable! You can read my review of their Bespoke Colour Collection here.

 

Do you know what you are going to be for Halloween?? What type of makeup look are you planning??

 

 

Review: Zoya Fall 2013 PixieDust Collection

 

 

 

 

I was SO excited when PR offered to let me try Zoya's fall PixieDust collection.  The line includes six fabulous new shades and they're all made with a textured, matte sparkle formula.  The formula is ideal for all you ladies who (like myself) do their nails right before bed.  I dare you to find a single bed sheet mark because I couldn't find one!  They dried insanely fast.  I'd say less then five minutes.  And I like that you don't have to fuss with a base coat when using these.  Since they're textured, any unevenness in your nails is immediately disguised and easily blended.  I applied two coats and liked the coverage so I skipped out on the top coat as well.  I worried it might take away from the 3D effect and longevity wise, they lasted a strong 4 days or so without chipping. 

 

 

Dhara: A dazzling copper

 

 

 

 

Sunshine: A Van Gogh Blue

 

 

 

Carter: A regal purple (This was my absolute favorite.  The purple polish combined with the vibrant hot pink sparkles creates an awesome two tone effect!)

 

 

 

 

Tomoko: A glowing silver

 

 

Arabella: A rich fuscia  

 

Chita: An emerald green (I'm so sorry I didn't get to swatch this one.  I lent it to a friend and didn't have a chance to use it before my post :/  But will tweet swatches soon!)

 

 

 

You can pick up the entire set at Zoya.com which retails for $54.00, or you can try the lacquers individually at $9.00 each.   

 

 

Have you tried any of the PixieDust lacquers?  Which is your favorite??

 

Press Release: Nicole by OPI Holiday Preview

 

 

 

 

Nicole by OPI announces two new gift sets for holiday featuring nail lacquers inspired by actress and singer Selena Gomez. Available in October, each gift set includes a Selena Gomez lacquer plus a free mini bottle of silver Gumdrops; a limited edition matte textured shade – only available in these sets. Gift set #1 includes Pretty in Plum (this picture-perfect purple is a genuine beauty) and gift set #2 includes Scarlett (this shimmery red-violet is leading lady lovely).

“Perfect for holiday festivities or as a stocking stuffer, lacquer fans can try these shades separately or mix them together to create dual sparkle and texture” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, Nicole by OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.


Nicole by OPI formulas are long-lasting, fast-drying, and salon-quality. These limited edition gift sets will be available beginning October 2013 for $7.99 each at retailers including select CVS, Ulta, Kmart, Kroger, H-E-B, Duane Reade locations. In Canada, these sets will be available for $10.99 each at Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu, Rexall, London Drugs, Familiprix, Uniprix and Brunet.


About Nicole by OPI:

Nicole by OPI offers a salon-quality range of bold, fashion-forward nail lacquers. The brand’s heritage is based on OPI’s well-established foundation of excellence in both color and technology, providing premium products to a broad range of consumers looking for trendsetting nail lacquers. Known for its celebrity collaborations and partnerships, the brand invites consumers to be creative and confident by expressing themselves through color. Currently, Nicole by OPI range boasts over 120 shades, including retailer-exclusive lacquers, and serves as the color authority for the younger demographic.

 

Follow Nicole by OPI on:

Twitter

 

 

Have you started your holiday shopping?  Is this something the beauty lover on your list might be interested in?  

scünci® Hair Accessories: On Trend Fall Headbands

Shooting for Gossip Girl may have wrapped, but the show's iconic, sassy styles live on.  Every Blair Waldorf ensemble included one of her signature headbands which became her claim to regal fame and scünci® Hair Accessories has just released a series of must have headbands and headwraps that will band together queens everywhere in quick, easy, and fashionable hair-dos. Whether you’re a sporty girl, an animal print fanatic, or a bohemian chic fashionista, scünci has you covered! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trendy Tresses: When PR kindly offered to send me complimentary samples of a collection, this one had my name written all over it!  You can add a little glitz to your look with the scünci® 6-Strand Fabric and Beaded Headwrap.  It offers the perfect amount of subtle sparkle but is so refined that you appear chic and elegant, not over done.  I love it with hair pulled back and just a wisps in front.   

 

 

 

 

But if some bling is what you're seeking (and who isn't??) the scünci® Jeweled Headband has that added wow factor for extra glamour.  This piece is undoubtedly my favorite and I've already worn it countless times! 

 

 

 

 

I want to add that this headband was SO comfy!  It had a metal band all the way around but surprisingly it didn't irritate the spots behind my ears (where many head bands will start to dig in a feel tight) and never once got caught on my hair.  I just know Miss Waldorf would approve! 

 

 

 

 

If you're in the mood for a more laid back type of look but still want to turn a few heads, the scünci® Wide Loose Knit Color Striped Headwrap has a great bohemian feel with totally fun, vibrant colors. Available at drug and mass retailers for an average retail price of $5.99.

 

 

 

 

Sporty Strands: The scünci® No-Slip Grip Evolution Mix Headwrap or the scünci® No-Slip Grip Waistband Headband will actively hold your hair back  while you’re working out or running around to keep up with your busy schedule. Available at drug and mass retailers for an average retail price of $5.49.

 

 

 

 

Luminous Locks: If you want to standout and make a statement, what better way then with some bold neons?  Get noticed with your locks wrapped in the scünci® Wide Stretch Neon Interlock Headwrap or try the scünci® Wide Ruffle Shiny Spandex Headwrap. Both are bright, eye catching fabrics that will totally show off your fierceness!  Available at drug and mass retailers for an average retail price of $4.99 - $6.99

 

Animal Accents: Go wild with the scünci® animal accents accessories collection.  The new scünci® Animal Print and Solid Interlock Headwrap, or the scünci® Knotted Animal Print Headband, are perfect to add a little edge to your fall fashion this season. Available at drug and mass retailers for an average retail price of $2.99- $3.99.

 

 

You can follow the latest on scünci® Hair Accessories on twitter and Facebook

 

 

Which collection fits you best?!

 

 

 

 

 

Aubrey Organics

You may recall a review I did a few month backs on a skincare brand called Aubrey Organics.  They are literally one of the most amazing skincare brands out there and with the harsh winter months about to take a toll on our skin, I wanted to shine the spotlight on them once again. 

 

 

Aubrey Organics is the pioneer in natural skincare products.  Their products were the first ever to be totally 100% natural and this year they've completely reinvented themselves. They're sporting a fresh new look, new star ingredients, and an even bigger array of natural products to choose from.  But best of all, they still have the same great philosophies and stellar results.

 

 

 

 

The newly reformulated product lines bring a delicate balance of nature and science to your daily skin care. Many of the new feature ingredients are backed by clinical trials: rye seed extract to reduce the look of wrinkles; golden seaweed to firm skin; beet root extract to boost moisture, and many more. These uniquely elegant formulas combine the latest technologies with nature's most precious ingredients. Lines include a Sparkling Glacier Water Complexion Mist, Revitalizing Gel Mask, Age Defying Cleanser, Calming Wipes, Clarifying Clear Skin Complex, and an Everyday Basics Moisturizer.  I love this line because they're extremely affordable and each retail for under $25.  You can find them at Whole Foods and on Aubrey-organics.com.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can read my review on my must have products from the line here.

 

 

 

 

Retail: $6.95

 

These I have yet to try, but they sound so yummy!  Made from pure, essential oils and nothing artificial, the soft, natural fragrances promise to carry you away to whichever mood you might be in, or looking to be in. From Berry Berry to Tangelo Twist, the Aubrey Body Spritzers come in full size and travel size so you can take them with you on the go. 

 

Available at: Whole Foods and Aubrey-organics.com

 

 

 

 

 

Retail: $15.95

 

Aubrey has also taken to providing sun protection with their new Mineral SPFs. Adding to their already successful EWG approved sunscreen family, Aubrey added an Unscented SPF 45 and an SPF 30 Spray for quick family applications. All are UVA/UVB protection certified. 

 

Available at: Natural Retailers or Aubrey-organics.com 

FreeBeautyEvents October Contest

 

 

 

One of my favorite beauty sites is FreeBeautyEvents.com because its one of the best resources out there.  It provides readers and beauty enthusiasts with updates on how to get free makeovers, free samples and even offers the chance to win beauty products in a monthly contest.

 

This month you can take advantage of the Ulta YesTo.  Demonstrators will be giving away free samples of Yes to Blueberries Eye Firming Treatment, Yes to Tomatoes Daily Balance Moisturizer, Yes To Carrots Body Butter, and Yes To Cucumbers.  Information like this is easy accessible on the website where spas and retailers can also promote their events.  Anyone interested in posting a beauty event can do so for free.  To find out if there are events happening in your area,  just visit the site and enter your zip code into the upper right hand corner of the page. 

 

In addition to listing in-store makeovers, the site also features a blog on product reviews.  Each month they conduct a contest to give away a bundle of fabulous beauty goodies, as well as a smaller prize during a weekly contest . 

 

 

This month, 5 lucky winners will receive beauty bundles including:  

 

 

 

 

* L’Oreal Revitalift Miracle Blur Instant Skin Smoother Finishing Cream

*Simple Protecting Light Moisturizer SPF 15

*Seventh Generation Boosts Skin Serum – Hydrating

 

The Contest runs from 10/1/2013 to 12/31/2013, winners will be chosen on 1/1/2014 and notified by 1/1/2014. Click here to enter!

 

 

Keep up to date and follow FBE on:

 

Pinterest

Facebook

Google+

Twitter

 

 

 

 

 

Holiday Gift Guide (Part I)

Hello lovelies, this is the first in a series of holiday gift guide posts that I'll be doing in the coming weeks.  It's crazy to think fall is almost over and before we know it Delilah will be cranking out those non stop holiday tunes on the radio and we'll soon be braving the crowds at Macy's. 

 

To make life a little easier, here are a few fabulous gift ideas for someone on your list this year!

 

 

 

Retail: $34.95

 

I see tons of people today, carrying around their ipads.  It almost seems like they can't quite live without them and it makes me wonder why more people don't go the extra mile to protect them.  Brenthaven is a reasonably priced company with an incredible selection of tech related items, including a collection of chic Trek Folios for the ipad minis. 

 

 

 

I love this white Trek Folio because its totally function and has great features like:

 

* Fits Mini iPad

* Integrated magnetic on/off

* Textured PU exterior and molded back with rubber touch to reduce slipping

* Ultra soft faux suede interior offers scratch protection

* Front cover protects screen and articulates for viewing and typing modes * Durable, cleanable hardshell exterior with corner protection

* Features custom cutouts for speaker ports/ charger/ etc

* And best of all: a Lifetime Guarentee 

 

They come in a variety of colors that work well for a guy or girl, depending on who you're buying for.  (I like the white because it looks so chic!) and they're really good quality. 

 

 

 

 

Retail: $59.99

 

Another great item (something I can never have enough of!) are ear buds.  Whether its using them to talk on the phone or listen to music at the gym or just walking down the street, its been my experience that most pairs conk out before a year is over and there's always room for a new pair. 

 

 

 

 

This pair of EQ Noise Isolating Earbuds from 808 are phenomenal. They not only look sleek and sexy but come with a 1 year warrantee and have amazing features:

 

* Tungsten carbide metal housing for great sound and voice quality

* Spiral support ear-tips for comfortable, snug fit

*Inline mic with control switch (iphone/ Android)

 

 Deep Base with Minimal Distortion

* Driver: 9.2 mm dynamic transducer

* Impedance: 16ohm

* Sensitivity: 98dB +/- 3dB

* Cable 1.2/ balanced

* 3.5 mm LRGM (CTIA Standard)

 

 

They come with extra ear tips and a convenient carrying case for you to keep them snugly tucked away and protect from getting tangled.  Their sound quality is excellent and I also like that instead of those plastic wires that always peel and break, they use a premium rayon OFC cable.  Its long enough that you have a decent range of movement, but short enough that you don't get caught and wrapped up in it.        

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have you started your holiday shopping?  Do you think these gifts will match anyone on your list this year?

 

 

 

 

 

Get the Look: Redken for Miu Miu at Paris Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2014

 

 

 

Hair by Guido, Redken Creative Consultant 

 

After having the models' hair washed with diamond oil shampoo and conditioner, Redken Creative Consultant Guido prepped the hair with extreme anti-snap leave-in treatment prior to styling. In order to maintain a clean finish, Guido opted not to add more products to the hair. The style is clean and natural, with a slight undertone of naïve sexuality.

 

"Pat's doing a very heavy lip gloss, which allowed me to secure pieces of hair onto the model's lips. The sticky lips and hair combination lends a little bit of sexiness to the overall style. Other than that, the hair for Miu Miu is all about clean and natural textures."

 

-Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

 

  

Redken Products Used:

 

 

 

 

-diamond oil shampoo

-diamond oil conditioner

-extreme anti-snap leave-in treatment

 

 

 

 

Photos by Matt Lever for Redken

 

 

Get the Look:

 

1. Shampoo and condition hair with diamond oil shampoo and conditioner
2. Apply extreme anti-snap leave-in treatment to lengths
3. Blow dry with round brush giving hair slight bend
4. Curl hair slightly if needed for additional movement
5. Create a messy center part
6. Tuck hair behind ears
7. Stick hair on lips so it sticks to the lip gloss

 

 

 

For more info and updates check out Redken on Instagram and search for a Redken salon near you!