Wet n Wild 2015 Collection

A couple weeks ago I attended the launch of Wet n Wild's  2015 Collection, where I got an up close look at all the goods!  Guests were wined and dined with signature cocktails and treated to professional make up touch ups.  The brand showcased all of its newest releases, and generously allowed guests to select samples from the smorgasbord of products to take home. 

 

A sucker for new lip colors, I practically dove into the bowl of Silk Finish Lipsticks.  The 24 new shades range from vibrant fuchsias and reds, to natural looking nudes.  Great options for the upcoming Spring and Summer, and you can totally stock up without breaking the bank.  They're super pigmented and glide right on.  Made with a creamy formula that contains vitamins A & E, aloe vera and macadamia nut oil, they're also super hydrating. 

 

Retail: $.99

L-R: Fuchsia with Blue Pearl, Just Garnet, Nouveau Pink, 15 Minutes Aflame, Retro Pink, Will You Be With Me? 

 

Looking for a new mascara?  Of course you are!   

Retail: $ 4.99

 

The Max Volume Plus (MVP) Mascara is definitely worth a try.  I'm a little hard to please in the mascara department because it's the one product I can't live without, but this one totally won me over.  At first the formula seemed too wet for me, but it dried pretty quickly.  I applied two coats and was shocked to see that my lashes took on a doll- like appearance almost instantly.  The shocking thing is that it took little effort to create.  The applicator bristles are rubber (ideal for lengthening), but they were unusually short.  I felt like the shortness of the bristles is what allowed them to get so close to the base that they were able to fully comb through and separate my lashes before distributing the product.  The brush itself had a unique shape.  It was wide at the base and got thinner towards the tip, where the bristles became SUPER short.  This turned out to work well for reaching the inner and outer corners of my eyes to get even coverage for a really full, voluminous effect.

  

 

 

Cover All Face Primer

Retail: $4.99

I LOVE this new primer!  The texture and appearance are similar to that of a white lotion.  This is because it's made with white sapphire, a new ingredient that is supposed to leave you with a smooth, "crystal complexion".  I'm not certain what the white sapphire element is exactly, but I can tell you that this little guy definitely kept my make up in place and I absolutely loved the smooth texture.  It felt more moisturizing then some of my other primers.  Other advertised benefits are minimized pores and even skin tone.  

 

 

The rows of new polishes were endless and I could hardly contain myself.  These were a few of my picks from the new Wild Shine Nail Colors.

 

Retail: $.99

L-R: Nuclear War, Oups, Putting on Airs, Tickled Pink, be More Pacific

 

The collection debuts 27 new shades with a new and improved high shine formula and sleek new packaging.  The formula is also 3-free (no formaldehyde, toluene or phthalates).   The finish is super glossy, and also had a nice wear time of about a week with no chipping.    

Cover All Correcting Palette

Retail: $ 3.99

 

Another must have was the Cover All Correcting Palette.  It's designed to provide coverage for any unwanted appearance.  The green helps reduce redness, the white brightens and highlights, and the yellow and purple act as opposites.  I've already put a nice dent in the yellow for the under circles that sometimes sneak up on me.  The purple works to hide any overly yellow spots that might develop.         

After I got my make up touched up with some of the deelies from the Fergie Collection, I couldn't possibly leave without snagging a few for the road.  Check out my picks below: 

Camouflage Couture Eye Shadow

Hollywood Boulevard Bronzer

 

 

Milano Collections Eye Shadow

 

 

Have you tried anything from the new collection?  Which products did you fall in love with?  

Beauty Box 5: March Reveal

 

 

Hello dolls, this month's BeautyBox 5 was petty sick in my opinion.  For those of you that don't know, Beauty Box 5 is a monthly subscription that delivers five of the beauty industry's hottest picks, straight to your door.  And lucky me receives a complimentary box each month in exchange for my thoughts :)  

 

The theme for this month was Hustle:

 

"Forget taking a spring break- spring into high gear through your lazy days this season!  Bold liner and lashes mean that even in your downtime you still look like a million bucks. Getting ready doesn't have to add stress- just prep your skin and gloss on because even if you're still working hard to get exactly where you want to be you're always the boss of your make up bag"- BB5

 

 

And now.... let's get into it!

 

 

 

 

Eslor Introductory Collection- Second Edition

Retail: $ 28.00 2 fl oz.

 

I remember getting Eslor in one of my first boxes and I really loved the mask.  The line is paraban free and it made my skin feel really smooth. I noticed that this collection is a second edition so I am not sure if it is the same one I received way back when or if I was about to try a new one.  But either way, I'm excited for more!     

 

 

 

Styli- Style Line & Seal Twist Mechanical Eye Liner

Retail: $4.99 .01 oz.

 

I've never heard of Styli- Style and I was surprised how smooth it went on.  The Raisin color works really well with my skin tone, especially my red hair.  It's a brownish/ red mixture that isn't overly dramatic, but still to stand out.  I was glad to see it wasn't another liquid liner.  I'm in need of some mattes for my waterline and this one is fab. 

 

 

 

 

I love trying new mascara!!!!  I couldn't wait to crack open Scandalous by NANACOCO. 

 

NANACOCO Scandalous Waterproof Mascara

retail: $4.99

The applicator head is ultra flexible which is supposed to make it easy to get those "hard to reach" spots.  This definitely adds a lot of length.  The formula is very light so it dries quickly (win!  I hate waiting for my lashes to dry).  I was able to get really close to my lash base with little effort, but even though I achieved a nice fan effect, I still didn't see any volume.  That aside, I still liked it.  And it'll be a great option for summer being that it's also waterproof. 

 

 

 

Laugh Out Loud by NANACOCO 

Retail: $ 3.99 .22 fl oz

 

I don't care what the magazines are saying these days, I will forever love a frosted lip.  "Call Me Babe" from Laugh Out Loud by NANACOCO is exactly what I would wear on a daily basis if I didn't have 1800 other lip colors begging me to wear them. It's a soft pinkish/ beige mixture that comes off completely natural looking a drop of shimmer.  It's lightweight, not too sticky, and has a sweet scent. #Perfection.   

 

 

 

 

Elite Therapeutics Rosemary Eucalyptus Body Cream

Retail: $19.00 8 fl oz.

 

Samples like these are always great to have because they're so convenient.  I plan to toss this little guy in my purse and actually look forward to those moments when I'm going to need it.  It contains rosemary and eucalyptus oils so its scent is very relaxing.  It isn't greasy so your hands feel smooth after it absorbs into your skin.  Plus, it's packaging is cute and festive for Spring~

 

 

Are you interested in Beautybox5?  You browse the subscription options here

New launch: London SOHO New York® Disney Princess Collection

 The new launch of the London SOHO New York® Disney Princess collection at Walgreens comes just in time for Easter!  It is a colorful collection of make up brushes and sponges that features the five classic Disney princesses: Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Aurora and Snow White.

The collection is designed to blend Disney’s enchanting style with London SOHO New York’s fun flair for FUNKtionality and makes for a perfect Easter basket goodie!

 

 

Belle Enchanted Eyes Brush Set 3-Piece

Retail: $12.99

 

 

 

The set includes:

Medium Fluff Brush – Short round shape creates depth and detail

Large Fluff Brush – Soft, fluffy bristles allow shadow to glide across eyelids with ease

Flat Angled Liner Brush– Angled shape creates flawless lines and can be used with powder, gel or cream line

 

 

 

 

 

As a Sleeping Beauty fan, there was no way I could pass up the Aurora Fairy Sponges 3-Piece Set, which is AMAZING.  I love it because each sponge between the three variations, there isn't any section or crevice of my face where I can't achieve coverage.  The various angles and curves of the sponges makes blending soo much easier and a lot less messy.     

 

 

 

Retail: $12.99

 

Pink Fairy Sponge – Pointed tip is perfect for under eyes and in corners.

 

Green Fairy Sponge – Wide base covers large areas such as the cheekbone, forehead and neck.  

 

Blue Fairy Sponge – Egg shaped dome gradually builds coverage where needed.

 

These are totally budget friendly and pretty decent quality.  A win for makeup and Disney lovers alike!  You can pick them up at:

 

 

  Sohobeauty.com or Walgreens.com

Review: RITUALS It's A Wrap Ultra-Light Conditioner for Frizzy Hair

It's a Wrap Ultra-light conditioner for frizzy hair
Retail: $19.00

April showers bring May flowers!  And though it's still March, NYC has already seen a fair amount of rain which spells disaster for my naturally frizzy mane.  Enter my hair's newest BFF: RITUALS It's A Warp Organic Rice Milk & Cherry Blossom Ultra-Light Conditioner for Frizzy Hair Conditioner.

 

I fell in love with the Shower Oil from RITUALS Sakura Collection and had high hopes for the conditioner.  It's made with Organic Rice Milk to nourish hair and create shine.  It's described as an "ultra light conditioner for frizzy hair" but also acts as a "mask" if left in long enough.  That being said, I chose to use it as a mask every time I applied it, regardless of whether it was a shampoo day, or a rinse with water day.  I applied it twice a week to my wet hair, and then rinsed it out after about four or five minutes.  

 

The formula was as lightweight as promised, with a lotion- like consistency, and was really easy to rinse out.  I even dared apply this to my scalp because I didn't fear it creating build up.  After I rinsed it out and towel dried my hair, I could quickly tell my hair felt softer and there was noticeably less frizz.  I'm not sure if it is heat activated or not, but it is also supposed to cut down on dry time.  Since I prefer to let my hair air dry, (expect when it's cold out), I'm not sure if it was a coincidence that my hair dried faster, or if it was indeed the wrap working its magic.  Either way, it seemed to work.

The Cherry Blossom scent I've become so addicted to was much less evident here then it was in the Shower Oil.  Which I suppose is ideal for those who don't like strong fragrances.  But personally, I was looking forward to the relaxing scent filling my bathroom! :)   

 

 Ultimately, I love this conditioner and foresee myself using it a lot in the coming rainy months.  It's great for frizz reduction and makes my unruly hair more manageable. 

FreeBeautyEvents March Giveaway

All you beauties out there know I'm how much I love FreeBeautyEvents.com.  You've heard me rave about them being a fabulous beauty resource and a great way to snag some killer free samples.  Their giveaways are always amazing and this month's bundle is super fab. This month's giveaway includes Beyonce's Rise fragrance, products from CoverGirl, Olay, Suave and more! The Contest runs from now through 3/31/15, winners will be chosen on 4/5/2015 and notified by 4/15/2015.  To enter, visit them on Facebook (don't forget to like them! :) or enter directly on their website.     

 

Besides the monthly giveaways, the site also offers great beauty advice and product reviews on their blog.  Like any of the products you read about?  Keep your eyes open for your chance to stock up!  Easy as 1-2-3, just enter your zip code into the site's search bar to find out which locations in your area might be handing out samples.  It's a helpful way to keep up to date with the beauty events happening in your town.      

 

Get more on FreeBeautyEvents.com :

 

Facebook 

Google+ 

Pinterest 

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Twitter

 

 

 

Have you visited FBE?  Did you attend any of the events??

Summer Must Have: Australian Gold Spray Gel With Instant Bronzer

 

 

 

Retail: $7.99

 

Finally, the warm weather is making an appearance I am SO relieved!  Winter is finally ending (good riddance) and on my yearly quest for the season's best bronzers and sunscreens, I came across the best of both worlds: Australian Gold Spray Gel with Instant Bronzer. 

 

Its exclusive formula contains natural caramel that works to soothe skin, while the bronzer enriches it for a healthy, radiant glow.  It is available in Broad Spectrum SPFs 4, 8, 15 and 30, which is what I like to hear!  I'm fair skinned and used to be one of those nerds you saw at the beach, swimming around in the hat and long t-shirt my mother made me wear. (Sexy I know).

  

So when I had the chance to try Australian Gold, I was intrigued. At first glance you might mistake it for a traditional bronzer, but it's actually a sunscreen that protects against UVA/UVB rays, and bronzes you as a bonus :p

 

Advertised benefits:

 

Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection

Exotic oils soften and moisturize skin for beautiful color

Aloe Vera provides natural soothing and skin conditioning

Water Resistant 80 minutes

Australian Gold signature fragrance

Packaged in 8 oz. bottle

 

 

 

 

The scent was soo yummy!  It smelled like a sweet, tropical mix of caramel and coconut that lingered just ever so slightly.  A pump dispenses the spray gel-like formula.  It felt practically weightless on my skin and absorbed amazingly well after I applied and rubbed it in.  It was really easy to blend and made it easy to get even coverage.  Surprisingly, my skin was never greasy or sticky.  My skin after felt smooth after application.  I saw a hint of a golden hue that stayed in place and didn't rub off on my clothes.  I'm wondering if the hue will increase when I start using it in the summer when the sun is much stronger.   In the mean time, I totally plan on taking it along to my alfresco lunches by the Seaport to get a head start on muh JLo glow :D     

 

 

Do you have a favorite sunscreen for the upcoming season? 

Review: RITUALS Sakura Spring Foaming Shower Oil

 

 

Sakura Spring Foaming Shower Oil

Retail: $15.00

 

RITUALS Sakura Spring Foaming Shower Oil  has been really soothing on my skin through these past winter months, and has proven to be a great preparation for Springtime.  Like most RITUALS products, the scent is gorgeous.  Made with organic Rice Milk and Eastern Cherry Blossom, it's uplifting, sweet, and totally refreshing.  The texture was unique.  When first dispensed from the pump, it's a lightweight, oil- like liquid with a greenish tint.  Once mixed with water and lathered on, the texture transforms into a gentle foam.  

 

 

 

I absolutely loved using this.  It made my skin feel so clean and hydrated.  When I was rinsing it off in the shower, I could feel the slick effect from the oil after it lightly coated my skin. After drying off, my skin felt silky smooth and there wasn't a trace of nasty, greasy residue. 

 

 

 

 This is a great buy for thirsty skin that has been beaten up by the harsh cold, or for skin that is just typically dry (like mine).  I used it daily for cleansing, as well as shaving, without experiencing any irritation.  Another element I love about RITUALS products is that sometimes they turnout to be multifunctional, without even meaning to be.  Directions advise you to rinse the bath/shower area after using it to avoid slipping, but personally I didn't experience any of the slip n' slide aftermath.  Overall, it think it's one of my RITUALS favorites and I'd definitely recommend adding it to your list of Spring Must Haves. 

New Launch: ISSEY MIYAKE L'eau D'issey City Blossom

 

 

I recently attended the launch event for L'eau D'issey City Blossom, the latest fragrance from Issey Miyake.  Guest sipped on cocktails and were treated to delicious hors-d'oeuvres while experiencing the newest must have fragrance.   

 

 

 

The new scent is a revamp of the originally popular L'eau D'issey version of the early 90's, City Blossom takes on a sophisticated, more modern feel.  

 

 

 

Retail: $ 100.00

Available: Fine retail stores nationwide

 

The perfect transitional scent for Winter to Spring, City Blossom's signature is "life in bloom" and draws inspiration from nature's miracles within the bustling city's walls.   It sweetly celebrates the melting of winter's pristine white canvas to reveal the sprouts of new life that splash the city streets with color.

 

 

For this Spring 2015 limited edition fragrance, the brand invited Alberto Morillas and visual street artist Mademoiselle Maurice to unleash their creativity and imagination.

 

When asked to created a visual that would reflect joy and poetry, Mademoiselle Maurice produced an intricate image of vibrant colors, reminiscent of petals blowing through the breeze.  The lovely graphic appears on both the box and the bottle.

The stunning artwork that graced the walls of the event, all done by hand by French visual street artist: Mademoiselle Maurice

 

The Scent: 

 

This very resonance transforms the figurative and abstract flowers on which the perfumer Alberto Morillas focused his creation into a divine spring breeze: the bright and cheerful opening like the signs of changing seasons, pink peppercorn, and a sprinkling of citrus notes, not forgetting a hint of calone, a nod to the legendary L’Eau d'Issey: the first quivering of a bud that will soon be blossoming. In dewy surroundings, the freshness is accentuated with middle notes that resonate beneath delicately honey-like osmanthus flowers, an invitation to travel – to the other side of the city – offered by freesia and magnolia: reserved and measured, the flower chose to retain its mystery by only opening halfway. Then with the bottom notes made up of natural Virginia white cedar dominated by powerful notes of ambrox and white musk, this imaginary bouquet takes shape and draws its energy, “texturising” itself like the petals of a flower which finally touch the skin...the flower opens out completely, serenely, in a subtle mingling of charm and boldness. 

 

 

I love this scent's unique take on ushering in the new season and more importantly, because it's unlike any other florals that I own.  Its pink packing had me expecting it to be overly flirty and sweet, but on the contrary, it has a crisp, clean feel.  Much like a fresh rainfall, it is destined to make you crave Spring every time you wear it.