Beauty Box 5: December Reveal

Merry Christmas Eve Eve!!  I hope everyone is having a safe and happy holiday season. 

It's also that time for this month's BB5 unboxing!  Who's excited? ;) 

For anyone not familiar with BeautyBox5, it is a monthly beauty box subscription that selects five of the industry's must haves and delivers them straight to your door!  There are various subscription options to chose from, but my lucky self receives a complimentary box each month in exchange for sharing the goodies with all of you lovelies :)

The theme of the box changes each month, and this December was "Just add confetti".  A totally appropriate mind set to help celebrate the holiday season and all of its festivities!  Scroll down to find out which party must haves BB5 selected.

Jelly Pong Pong Liquid Gossamer

Retail: $22.95

This was lightweight, liquid illuminator is supposed to provide the perfect amount of highlight for any occasion.  What's also great is that it's full size!

Neutrogena Rainbath

Retail: $7.24

A combo of fruit, spices, and herbs, this scent will definitely wake you up in your morning shower and get your senses tingling!

Amlactin Cerapuetic Restoring Body Lotion

Retail: $2.99

I've used Amlactin before and it's good for these colder months.  The body lotion contains Amlactin's patented Ultraplex in combination with ceramics to help relieve dry skin.  

Professional Freezing Finish Spray 

Retail: $3.00

A girl can never have too much hairspray.  How did BB5 know I needed more?? 

Hikari Lip Gloss in Fate

Retail: $13.00

Hikari is becoming a favorite of mine.  I first learned about it through BB5 and I've liked most of their past picks.  This gloss is nice because it's formula is advertised as semi- matte, so it's well pigmented, but you can still play around with the intensity.  Plus I'm a huge fan of neutrals so this is a color I'll wear often.

Thanks BB5 for being super generous this month! :)  Four out of the five products were full size which was really awesome, and each one is one I'll get a lot of use out of this season.  Definitely looking forward to next month's box! 

Do you subscribe to BB5?  Are you interested in trying it?    

Hard Candy Stocking Stuffers

The holidays are almost here!!  Can you tell I'm excited? ;)  With Christmas just one week away, many of us are scrambling around doing last minute gift shopping.    

 

Retail: $9.98

 

To save you a little time, Hard Candy has put together the perfect stocking stuffer for the beauty lover on your list.  The Get Up and Gloss Lip Color Collection  includes five hydrating All Glossed Up Lip Stains and five Fierce Effects Lipsticks-- for only $9.98!  Hard Candy is one of my favorite brands (their mascara is amazing) so this is a total steal. 

 

 

Even if you're caught up on your shopping, you should totally treat yourself to these gorge lip shades this season.  The collection is great because it has a nice range of sheer and glossy, to bold, heavily pigmented shades.  A color for every mood!

  Collection available here and at Walmart
 

Check out more Hard Candy Holiday Collections! #HardCandyHoliday

 

 

Did you finish your holiday shopping? 

 

 

Bouffants & Broken Hearts Coloring Book from Kendra Dandy

Lately I've been hearing a lot about the benefits of coloring.  Aside from it being a creative outlet, experts say it can actually help you to distress.  Not that my life is exactly full of stressors, but I could definitely use some R&R now and then, and the fashion inspired Bouffants & Broken Hearts Coloring Book by Kendra Dandy was too cute to pass up! 

   

Kendra Dandy is a popular graphic artist and fashion designer, whose prints you may recognize from places like Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters.  

   

 

 

Dandy's 75 page book has a variety of  pop art patterns like mini hot dogs, funky flamingos, and 60s-inspired bouffants.  The book is fun because it has something for every mood! 

 

I loved the lipsticks and bouffant pages for when I was feeling creative and had fun putting together stylish color combos.  Patterns like the exotic birds were great for when I just wanted to chill out and do something carefree.   

 

 

My next masterpiece :p

 

 

Overall, it's a fun way to kick back and check out of reality for a bit.  And definitely a fun gift idea for the fashion lover on your list!

 

 

Have you tried coloring to relax?  Does the Bouffants & Broken Hearts Coloring Book make you wanna try it? 

 

 

 

 

About Kendra Dandy:

 

Graphic artist Kendra Dandy launched the brand Bouffants & Broken Hearts in 2012. The line represents a sense of individuality and self expression shown in a mix of patterns, colors, and subjects. She is a Philadelphia native and she stumbled upon surface design while striving to combine her love for illustration and fashion design. She has successfully collaborated with notable companies including Anthropologie, teNeues, Papyrus, Urban Outfitters, and Printed Village. 

 

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New Launch: Dr. Kenneth Mark Skincare

  

A few weeks ago I attended the skincare launch of board-certified Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Mark for his skincare line of the same name.  The collection includes five innovative, technologically advanced anti-aging products; All- in- One Cleanser, Antioxidant Boost, Moisture Cure, Exfoliating and Hydrating Mask, and Tighten and Lighten Eye Cream.   

 

The All-In-One Cleaner ($65.00) and Antioxidant Boost ($190.00) are unique because they contain Dr. Kenneth Mark's proprietary ingredient “Encapsulated Astaxanthin,” which is a Carotenoid up to 1,000 times as potent an antioxidant as Vitamin C.

 

Described as a "multi- tasking formula", this cleanser truly does it all.  It's formulated to tone, cleanse, and remove makeup and impurities simultaneously.  My skin is sensitive and on the dry side, and this cleanser felt really gentle.  It left behind that clean, refreshed feeling I get after a good facial.  It contains green tea to help protect against environmental stressors- which are totally necessary when living in NYC- , along with hyaluronic acid to increase skin's hydration.  I love that it has the built in toner because I'd be lying if I said I always remember to use the one I have.  Sometimes I plain forget, which is why this is so convenient.  Also great is that it's considered ideal for all skin types.

 

The Antioxidant Boost, or "anti- aging powerhouse", is formulated to significantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles, increase firmness, and boost collagen.  While I don't have lines or wrinkles, I liked this product because it contains shea butter, acai oil, olive and grape seed oils, targeted at hydrating and nourishing skin, along with Vitamin A which helps combat uneven pigmentation.  Together, these are a great combo for my skin.  They definitely maximize hydration and help quench my thirsty skin.  I'd love to try them with the moisture cure and see how soft my skin can really get!    

   

Browse more Dr. Kenneth Mark here

 

 

Have you tried Dr. Kenneth Mark products?

Beauty Box 5 November Reveal

Hello dolls,  I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!  

For anyone not familiar with BeautyBox5, it is a monthly beauty box subscription that selects five of the industry's must haves and delivers them straight to your door!  There are various subscription options to chose from, but my lucky self receives a complimentary box each month in exchange for sharing the goodies with all of you lovelies :)


The theme of the box changes each month, and this November's "It's Too Cold For A Naked Face" was a great nod to prepping for the cold winter months ahead!  Scroll down to see which essentials BB5 deems best for the job ;) 

Brogue Deep Conditioning Hair Mask
Retail: $36.00

My hair can always use a good mask- regardless of the season.  This one is advertised as good for repairing damage and breakage and contains no sulfates, paragons, silicones, artificial colors or fragrances.

Manna Kadar Lip Locked Stain "Shea" 
Retail: $24.00

O M G this was my favorite item in the box.  It's advertised as a primer, stain and lip gloss in one, and is great for all skin tones.  It's a lightweight, neutral shade that reminds me of JLo and something she might wear.  Noticeable, but natural looking.  When it runs out, I may go and re purchase the full size bottle.

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
Retail: $6.49

I can never get enough of these.  I use them on my lazy days when I use minimal make up, or none at all, and I just want to give my skin a break.  They're known to be a cult favorite, and advertised to easily remove even water proof eyeliner.

Peony Shadow Trio in Gilded 
Retail: $17.95

Formulated to last up to eight hours, this velvety, super pigmented trio is right up my alley.  I have blue eyes so golds and neutrals are my absolute faves.

BB5 Cut That Crease Angle Brush 
Retail: $10.00

BB5's very own angled brush is designed to allow for precise placement of cream or powder shadow in the crease and leave you with an air brushed finish.  Personally, I'm all about the angled brushes because the case is my favorite part.  A perfect crease can bring even the simplest look to life.



I loved this month's box.  It seems the picks are becoming more and more practical.  BB5 has also been pretty generous and sending a lot of full size items.   

Fall Makeup From Three Brands You Ought to Know

 

Last week I was majorly excited to attend PR's "Makeup For Fall" event at the luxurious Pierre Michel Salon.  The event showcased the latest products from three incredible brands; Kevyn Aucoin, Winky Lux and FACE Stockholm.       

 

 

Scroll down to see some of my favorites!

  

Kevyn Aucoin




Kevyn Aucoin




Kevyn Aucoin

 

Kevyn Aucoin

 

Browse more Kevyn Aucoin here 



WINKY LUX



WINKY LUX

Browse more Winky Lux here

FACE Stockholm

FACE Stockholm

FACE Stockholm

FACE Stockholm

FACE Stockholm

 Browse more FACE Stockholm here

 

It was my first time trying any of the brands and I felt like a kid in a candy store.  The color selections were endless, and the quality of everything was impressive.  Regardless of which brand, every product was beautifully pigmented and had a richness about them.  I was surprised to learn most of the products were pretty moderately priced, considering the amazing quality.  

 

 

 

If you have a make up lover on your holiday list this year, I'd highly recommend checking these out.  And if you're the only beauty junkie you know-- treat yourself!!  You can thank me later.  

The New Shopping App from Seezona that Every Fashionista Needs

Last month, Seezona founders Ana Krndija & Anna-Carina Helander, creators of the empowering "#Check Yourself Ma'am" campaign, hosted an after work soirée at the new Dominique Bistro in NYC.  The event provided an up close look at the brand's innovative online shopping app and showed off why it's every fashionista's new  best friend. 

 

 

 

The app is pretty cool.  It uses the impressive StyleWhile technology which helps you more accurately envision yourself wearing the items you want to purchase.  You start by selecting the pieces that interest you, and then use them to dress your virtual model.   You can adjust the model's size/face to better reflect your own appearance and determine whether or not the items are right for you. 

 

As if that's not perfect enough, the site also uses picture recognition software that lets you find and compare similar styles/ items from different brands.  For example, if you were crushing hard on those red silk pants from Gucci but your bank account isn't having it, a few more clicks and the app can score you a more affordable look alike pair from another brand.  The app will be especially useful with the holidays around the corner.

       

 

 

After the live app demos, guests dined on Dominique Bistro's delicious wine and  appetizers for the rest of the evening.  If you're ever in the West Village on Christopher Street, do yourself a favor and stop in.

 

 

 

Also important is that for every website registration received, Seezona makes a donation to Breast Cancer Research and gives you exclusive access to their bloggers’ stories about cancer.  It coincides with their popular "#Check Yourself Ma'am" campaign and is a great opportunity to give back!  Go ahead and register here   

 

 

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The Click N Curl Blowout Brush Set

 

The Click N Curl Blowout Brush Set  is a new, patent pending hairstyling tool that is designed to effortlessly create salon style curls in a minimal amount of time.  PR graciously invited press to watch live demos up close and even experience one for ourselves!  

 

 

Creator Kim Nimsgern was also on hand to explain how she stumbled upon the idea.  She was in the middle of styling when the handle to her round brush accidentally broke off, leaving the barrel behind in her hair.  To her surprise, it created an amazing curl, and thus the Click N Curl was born!   

 

  

 

 If you're already a blow dry whiz, the process is a breeze.  If you're anything like myself and are less then stellar at handling the dryer/ round bush combo, don't worry, because the beauty of this device is that you don't have to be. 

 

 

 

To sum it up, it's a clever brush with a detachable handle that involves three basic steps.  You start off by gathering a section of hair and begin blowing it dry with the barrel as you normally would.  Next, you set the barrel close to your scalp, and then press the button to detach the handle, leaving the barrel in your hair to set the curl.  You insert the handle into the next barrel and move on to the next section and repeat the process. 

 

 

Since my coordination with the duo isn't overly impressive, I've found I get the best results when I set my set with the barrels and then go over them with the dryer, rather then try to dry my hair as I go along. 

 

The sets come in sizes X-Small, Small, Medium and Large to accommodate different hair lengths and each barrel is vented to cut down on dry time.  The brand has also recently launched the Click N Curl Expansion Kits  which are your opportunity to buy additional barrels should your hair require more. 

 

With the holidays coming this is the perfect gift idea for the beauty addict on your list this year! 

 

Shop Click N Curl products here

Retail: $39.99

Beauty Box 5: October Reveal

  

 

  

Hello dolls!  For anyone not familiar with BeautyBox5, it is a monthly beauty box subscription that selects five of the industry's must haves and delivers them straight to your door!  There are various subscription options to chose from, but my lucky self receives a complimentary box each month in exchange for sharing each month's goodies with all of you lovelies :)

 

 

The theme of the box changes each month, and October's "Boss Babe Coming Thru!" is dedicated to embracing the girl boss we all have somewhere inside of us!  Scroll down to see which essentials will help it shine through ;)  

 

 

 

 Chella Ivory Lace Highlighter Pencil

Retail: $18.00

 

I have lots of highlighters, but not many in pencil form.  This one is nice because it can help with smaller areas where you want a more precise application like the inner corners and waterlines of your eyes, under the brow or to accentuate your cupid's bow. 

 

 

 

 Color Me Femme Gold

Retail: $10.00

  

I'm all about a fun, sweet scent.  Made with fruit and citrus notes, this one hits the spot!   

 

 

 

 Emery + Ivory Custom Nail Applique

Retail: $12.99

  

 Nail appliques are always great for the girl on the go when she doesn't always have the time to pencil in a mani.  Set aside a few minutes to peel and stick, and boom!  Your nails are salon style perfection. .

 

 

 Real Her Miosturizing Lipstick

Retail: $18.00

 

I had never heard of this brand before now, and it's one I'm going to look for.  The formula is described as a combination gloss and matte that won't leave your lips cracked or dry, and is highly pigmented.  Check, check and check!  I'd call it a creamy matte that lives up to it's hype.  Very rich, amazing color pay off, and definitely didn't dry out my lips.  In short, I'm really into it.  Oh, and the packaging is mad chic too!    

 

 

 Amlactin ULTRA Hydrating Body Cream

Retail: $2.99

 

Amlactin has a patented ULTRAPLEX formula that gently exfoliated and is clinically proven to deeply hydrate.  With the winter coming up, this will be great to have on hand to help combat dry skin. 

 

 

 

I loved that everything in this month's box (except the fragrance) was full size!  And I'm excited to see what other products Real Her offers.  One of the things I like most about BB5 is I usually find at least one new brand each month to start obsessing over.

 

 

 

Do you subscribe to BB5?  What'd you think of this month's box?