Ipsy: February Review

Hey you! I'm finally back from my annual trip to the Magic Kingdom. I had grand plans of blogging and keeping up my normal schedule, but the beautiful weather all of the magic had me happily occupied! I brought back a few souvenirs including a nasty cold. I need a vacation from my vacation! ;) I'll share more on my trip on this month's Chit Chat video, so stay tuned. In the meantime, let's get into this month's Ipsy bag. It's a good one!

How cute is it? The theme is #ipsylove--perfect for February and Valentine's! So now that you've seen the bag, let's check out the goodies inside:

Luxurious Products I Love Plus September Ipsy

Hey you! Happy weekend to us! Today I've got a few new product reviews for you to check out. While most of these will be pricier items (def worth the splurge), let's kick things off with this month's Ipsy bag, which is only $10 a month and is all about Street Style. I loved the bag this month! Check out the quick video below to see reviews of what I got! Plus, there's a cameo by Charlie.

 Click or c&p http://youtu.be/ibVz-orVTnM to watch!

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Cailyn Gloss--not my fave

Nourish Organic Face Cleanser--gentle

Pacifica Eye Liner--nice brown

Crown Brush--2 for 1!

Mitchell & Peach Handcream--lightweight

If interested in joining Ipsy for $10 a month, click here.

Discontinued Beauty Tag Plus Ipsy August

Hey you! How was your weekend? I got caught up on mags, had a blog event and had dinner with some friends. The weekend flew by, as usual! So today's post is a 2-in-1! First up is my Discontinued Beauty Tag--do you have products you still love but they aren't made anymore? Or maybe they were reformulated and just aren't the same? See exactly what I'm talking about as I picked a few of my favorites, below:

Video can also be viewed here.

I tag YOU! Let me know your gone-not-forgotten beauty products in your own video (or in the comments).

Speaking of beauty products, every month I share what I got in my Ipsy bag. The theme this month is Beauty Schooled. Let's see what I got in my cute orange polka dot bag below:

Info below via my Ipsy Glam Room.

Lord & Berry: Silk Kajal Kohl Eye Pencil
Sensual and exotic, that's the effect that Silk Kajal Kohl Eye Pencil delivers. Just like the traditional Kohl, but with the modern ease and control of a pencil. Giving a semi-matte finish that is also smudgeable, Silk Kajal Kohl's soft tip is ophthalmologically-tested and gentle enough to be used on the inner eye. Also available in Nudo and White. It's very tiny, but liking so far.

Urban Decay: Perversion Mascara

Bigger. Blacker. Badder. Urban Decay's ultra-creamy, lengthening and volumizing mascara features triple-black pigments and a deeply nourishing ingredient blend. Perversion Mascara gets you sexy in one stroke, yet it won’t quit until you say when. It's a good mascara but it has flaked on me a little. Can't wait to test it out more.

Free Your Mane: Reviving Spray
Free Your Mane Reviving Spray gives your do a fresh start without making you start from scratch. This versatile spray plays well with other products — reviving them (get it?) without weighing down your locks. This made my straightened hairstyle disappear, so I need to try this on curly or wavy hair. Nice sample size.

Bee All Natural: Organic Grapefruit Lip Balm
Pure and natural organic lip balm that soothes and heals dry, chapped lips. A light and refreshing blend of organic beeswax and organic oils. I didn't like this one--smelled mostly of raw cocoa butter (no, not coconut or grapefruit) and kept flaking chunky bits on my lips when I tried to use it.

Manna Kadar Cosmetics: Sheer Glo
Sheer Glo is an incandescent liquid that lights up skin with all over radiance. Mix with foundation or wear alone to provide a luminous glow for all skin types. An especially amazing product for mature or dry skin. Sheer Glo provides a youthful glow and dewy finish. Use on face and/or body and get glowing. Glow is very subtle, meaning many would be a fan of this.

Get your own Ipsy bag for $10 here.

What products have you been loving lately?

PS: $100 Visa Gift Card--click here!

Ipsy June 2014

It's that time of the month...where I share my monthly Ipsy glam bag. For $10, you get a bag full of beauty goodies. And you can sign up here using my affiliate code if you'd like. Let's see what I got:

The theme: Pretty in Paradise
The bag: designed by Rebecca Minkoff
NYX Butter Gloss in Creme Brulee--light and lovely
OFRA Eyebrow Pencil--It's good
Realtree for Her Fragrance--Liked it
Be a Bombshell Masacara--Smelled, but worked fine
Marc Anthony Dream Waves Beach Spray--Smells like a pina colada and has a lot of hold to it.
-Overall, I found something positive in everything I received.

For a more detailed review, please watch the video below:

http://youtu.be/DpGCByZ-ESg

To subscribe to Ipsy, click here.

What did you receive in your bag or box?

PS: Are you a fan of Target? Okay, who isn't? Then you need to enter BOTH of my GIVEAWAYS. It takes just a few seconds to enter. You don't have to follow me or anything. Just leave a comment with your email. You can tweet about the giveaways as well for an extra entry. 

• $100 Target giftcard from Sonia Kashuk (also enter here)--ends 6-30 
• $100 Target giftcard from St. Ives--ends 6-30

Ipsy: May Glam Bag

As another month speeds by, it's time for another Ipsy bag! The theme for this month is Fresh Picks! Let's see what I got:

-Bag with plant design on one side, green on the other

-Pacifica Mineral Eyeshadow Duo in Moonbeam and Unicorn

• Coconut-infused mineral eye shadows, packaged in a beautiful travel-ready recyclable container, these exclusive duos are customized just for ipsy! These shades can be found in the Pacifica Mystical and Charmed Palette. Smooth application with gorgeous color pay-off. I'll be passing these on since I don't care for the colors.

-Endless Euphoria by Calvin Klein

• Calvin Klein translates the provocative fantasy of the iconic euphoria fragrance into a sunlit daydream filled with cherry blossoms and an air of sheer sensuality. I didn't care for this, as it gave me a headache, but will pass it on.

-Sans Tan Anti-Aging Sunscreen

• The Jersey Shore Sun® Sans Tan Anti-aging Sunscreen contains non-nano, anti-aging, certified organic ingredients, including vitamin E (non-GMO) & vitamin D3 which can be deficient in individuals avoiding the sun. SPF 35 provides broad spectrum protection which prevents premature aging and helps to prevent health risks associated with prolonged exposure to the sun. Top rated & recommended for safety, stability and excellent UVA protection, by The Environmental Working Group. This practically free from everything, and it worked. Just be sure to shake it up before using.

-Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Masque

• Conditions, repairs and strengthens dry and damaged hair. Argan Oil nourishes and revitalizes, while Keravis Protein drastically increases hair’s strength and elasticity. The results are hydrated, soft and manageable hair. I have seen but have never tried this brand before. I liked it and would like to try more of their products. Smells so good.

-Avène Thermal Spring Water 

• The only thermal spring water bottled directly from the source and packaged in a sterile environment to guarantee purity and maximum skin benefits. Its unique composition is proven to soothe inflammation, itching, redness, general sensitivity and post-medical and aesthetic procedure irritation as it softens, protects and purifies the skin. So far, it seems like fancy water to me, but I will use this at the beach!

-Bonus Item: Bare Minerals Lipstick in Strike It Up

• I used up my Ipsy points to get this. It's a beautiful coral (imagine that...me with a coral lip! ha). I have a big Bare Minerals review coming in a couple of weeks, so styayed tuend for that!

Bare Minerals Strike It Up, Pacifica Eye Shadow Duo

Want to join Ipsy? It's only $10 a month! Click my code here to join.

What did you get this month in your bag or box?

PS: $100 Target Giftcard from Sonia Kashuk for Target--ends 6-30

Ipsy: January 2014 (Video)

I'm so glad it's Friday! I've got a weekend planned of watching movies and filming videos for my YouTube channel. I can't wait! Speaking of videos, I've got my review of this month's Ipsy Bag in fewer than 3 minutes. Check it out, below:

Can't see the video? CLICK HERE.

What's In the Bag?

• Benefit The Porefessional: Quickly minimize the appearance of pores & fine lines for smoother-than-smooth skin! Apply this silky, lightweight balm alone, under or over makeup. Translucent, oil-free formula complements all skintones and helps makeup stay put. Contains a Vitamin E derivative, known to protect skin from free radicals.
• Mojito Lip Balm:The (MALIN+GOETZ) Mojito Lip Balm is as soothing to the lips as it is to the senses. Flavored with (MALIN+GOETZ) Mojito, this lip balm is scientifically blended to restore and replenish. The hydrating lip gel easily integrates for daily maintenance, prevention and treatment of dry, irritated lips. Color and Paraben free.
• Balm Me Up Organic Sweet Cocoa & Tangy Body Balm:Treat your whole body with a smooth and buttery body balm. Enriched with healthy butters and an invigorating blend of essential oils that will wake up your senses and moisturize your skin without leaving it greasy or tacky. Make sure you work it well into elbows, knees and even your feet, they'll thank you later.
• Absolute! Makeup Remover Tissues in Pomegranate: Pre-moistened, refreshingly fragranced, water-based cloths designed to instantly remove even waterproof makeup without irritation. Infused with natural extracts and botanicals, Absolute! Makeup Cleansing Tissues are formulated to reawaken and soften skin, while helping to reduce puffiness. Made of delicate spun lace, our convenient, effortless 1-step tissues are gentle enough for use on sensitive skin and around the eye area.
• Yaby Liquid Foundation in Buff: The yaby Liquid Foundation leaves an unbelievably natural, super smooth texture and is extremely easy to apply. Mimics the skin's natural sheen to create the most realistic flawless skin. Oil-free. 

What did you get in your Ipsy (or any monthly sub box)?

PS: Interested in joining Ipsy? Click here.

Ask Elle: Best of Beauty Boxes

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Do you have any monthly subscription boxes? I've tried out several, and I get asked this question fairly often, especially since it's a new year. Today I'm sharing favorites. Enjoy.

Birchbox--This was the first sub I ever had and I was a member for a year!

• High-end beauty and lifestyle samples
• $10 month ($20 for men)
• Questionnaire profile
• Samples and full-size
• Point system to redeem on items in the shop or you can purchase them as well
• Best For: Fans of and occasional makeup users; you get to try high-end products you might not have been exposed to otherwise
•  I received mostly skincare samples, even after changing my profile, so I didn't like all of my boxes. However, most people are huge fans
• Similar sub I'd like to try: Glossybox

Wantable--Features subscriptions for makeup, intimate apparel, and accessories

• The best in beauty, curated by an industry insider
• $36 month ($40 one-time purchase)
• Very detailed questionnaire--the best I've ever tried. You never have to worry about getting something you don't want!
• 4-5 full-sized products hand-picked to match your preferences
• Best For: Beauty fanatics, especially beauty professionals, who want exclusive products
• I really loved this box and was exposed to products I had not used before

Beauty Box 5--Makeup, hair care, skin care, nail care, fragrances and beauty accessories

• 5 beauty samples--deluxe, travel, full-sized
• $12 monthly with additional quarterly and yearly plans
• Discounts on brands featured
• Mixture of luxury, commonly known brands, niche brands, eco-conscious and even vegan brands
• Best For: Beauty fans and beginners
• I really liked this box and found it similar to Ipsy.

PopSugar Must Have Box--Hand-selected items in beauty, fashion, home, fitness, and food

• Full-size products and premium items
• $39.95 a month
• Best For: Those who want a little of everything. It's not a beauty box, but has something for everyone, so I had to include it!
• My favorite "everything" box.
• Similar sub I'd like to try: Fit, Fab, Fun

Ipsy--The longest sub I've had, since 2011!

• Full-size and deluxe beauty samples in a themed bag
• $10 month
• Questionnaire
• Active online community (for example, members will swap items)
• Discount on brands featured
• Point system with gifts offered at different point amounts
• Best For: Makeup fans

So those are some of my fave sub boxes.

What are yours?

PS: GIVEAWAYS for YOU!

To thank you for supporting my blog, I have two giveaways I'd love for you to enter:

• Neutrogena for the New Year (FOUR WINNERS)--ends 1-11
• Naked 3 Palette--ends 1-16

Easy, Quick New Year's Eve Makeup

Happy New Year's Eve! What are your plans? If you're looking for an easy, quick look, you're in the right place! Today I'm sharing classic makeup looks that look great on everyone, because let's be honest, no one has time for the smokey eye or practicing playing with adding glitter. Enjoy!

5 Minutes to Get Ready:

• Oily skin? Blot face with Starbucks napkins.
• Apply a shimmery shadow to the center of lids with your pointer finger. Gently blend out on the sides of lid with ring finger. My favorite is Stila's Kitten.
• Not into shadow? Dab a tiny amount of plain Chapstick to lids for shine.
• Curl lashes and add mascara
• Already wearing mascara? Gently curl base of lashes with lash curler (your lashes will be fine as long as you gently apply pressure) or with a metal spoon.
• Apply red lip crayon to lips. This is the easiest way to wear red lips. I like versions by Revlon (original or matte formula), Jordana, The Big Lip Pencil.
• Still feel intimidated? Outline and fill in lips with a red lip liner and add a clear gloss or Chapstick on top.
• If needed, use a makeup setting spray (or make your own using Witch Hazel). These are available in dewy and matte formulas. I like Urban Decay, Skindavinia, NYX, or Model in a Bottle.

NYE Makeup Tips:
-If you have 15 minutes or more, try these tips!

• If you're starting from foundation, and you need your makeup to last all night, spray your face first with a makeup setting spray. Then apply primer (if desired), moisturizer (if desired), foundation, concealer, and powder as usual. Spray again.
• For lids, you cannot beat neutral shimmery shadows. And palettes featuring them can be found at any budget. I'm wearing the Eye on Neutral Shimmer one pictured from Sonia Kashuk at Target, but I also love the Pop one I featured in my latest Ipsy bag or the Naked 2 Palette. This Almay trio is a fave of mine as well.
• Start with a light shimmery shade all over the lid. In the crease, blend out a brown shimmer shadow. It should be darkest in the crease and blended out towards the brow. Next, add the darkest brown in the outer "v" of the eye. Blend and blend that same shadow under the lower lash line.
• If you're not into all of that but want a little sparkle, I like champagne shimmery shadows for those with lighter skin and golden shimmery shadows for darker complexions, but wear what you like!
• I love a little eyeliner flick, and it's much easier than you think! The key is to use an angeled eyeliner brush. These can be purchased for really cheap, like ELF or Sonia Kashuk (pictured). I use a gel liner for this--Wet N Wild and Maybelline are some good drugstore options. I start at the outer edge of my eye and imagine I'm drawing a tiny flick in the direction as if to meet the end of my eyebrow. Here's an old tutorial of this. 
• If you're into false lashes, my best tip is to cut them in half or thirds. But for something easier, I really have been loving the L'Oreal Butterfly mascara. Other favorites include Maybelline Big Eyes or Too Faced Better Than Sex mascaras.
• Highlighter brushed above cheekbones is gorgeous for a night out. I used The Balm's May Lou-Manizer, which shows really well in non-flash photos (I use it more for this than in real life) but I also recommend Revlon's Skinlights (liquid), Wet N Wild's Reserve Your Cabana, Hard Candy's Tiki, or MAC MSF.
• You can't beat a red lip, but if you want something a little less low-maintenance, you need a lip crayon. Revlon's original lip crayons (pictured) or the new matte ones are so easy to apply. 
• Complete your look with a gold glitter polish. These can be found for every budget. 

Bonus Tips:

• More NYE makeup hair and makeup ideas
• NYE On-the-Go Kit
• How to Avoid Flashback in Photos
• NYE Survival Kit
• Hangover Facial Mask
• No More Stinky NYE
• NYE Entertaining Ideas
• NYE Makeup

See y'all next year! Be safe, behave, and be well. Love, Elle

CURRENT GIVEAWAYS:

• Neutrogena for the New Year (FOUR WINNERS)
• Naked 3 Palette

Ipsy Bag for December--My 2 Year Ipsy Anniversary!

Hey you! How was your weekend? Mine was really low-key. I forced myself to do take a day off from blogging and ended up taking more like a day and a half. Of course I couldn't keep myself away from the beauty products! And today I'm sharing my Ipsy bag for December. I can't believe it's been 2 years since my first bag--that's the longest I've stuck to any subscription service. I've made a video where I share my bag, and I'd love it if you'd watch and possibly subscribe to my Youtube channel. Let's see what I got:

• Cute, textured black bag with red lining
• The Big Lip Pencil in Red Rose is a hydrating and vibrant lipstick as well as a sculpting lip liner. 
• The Nicka K New York polish in Classic Taupe is specially designed to glide across fingernails with minimal effort for vibrancy that is dazzling and long lasting. Formula is free of DBP, Toublene, and formaldehyde. 
• POP Beauty Bright Up Your Life Eye Shadow Trio palette in Naturally Bare adds definition & intensity to lids, creating a broad range of looks that complements all eye colours. From brightening bare to sultry smoke, these hues blend smoothly onto the lid, adding a veil of silky luster that will outlive the day or night! 
• Ardell’s Natural lashes in Demi are perfect for enhancing your eyes for an everyday look. These are the most popular lashes as they give the desired, natural look of full, beautiful lashes. Lightweight and reusable, these lashes are permanently curled, waterproof, comfortable to wear and easy to apply.
• Be a Bombshell The One Stick in Sunset is all-in-one multiple stick with a smooth texture. Apply to eyelids, cheeks or lips for the perfect pop of color anywhere! 

And here's my super-quick video reviewing the products!


Direct link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKPvqyBuMi0&feature=youtu.be

And here's my wearing the products, via my Instagram, which was my most-liked pic ever.

I was also wearing the same makeup in my Happy Holidays tag. Did you see that post?

If you're interested in joining Ipsy, then please click here to use my link. Thank you!

Current Giveaway:

• Naked 3 Palette (US only)
• Another one will be uploaded tonight!

Ipsy Glam Bag: November

Y'all--I am having one of those weeks! I feel like I'm all out of sorts. Maybe it's a post-Thanksgiving haze? Prime example: I filmed a hilarious (to me) video for this post, complete with Charlie cameo. When I went to edit it, it was nowhere to be found. So after much deliberation (ok, about a minute of panic) I decided to just do the post instead. This month is my two year anniversary with Ipsy, and I've posted every month, so I can't skip this past month! Now, while this is really late, think instead that I've thoroughly reviewed these products. Deal? And hopefully things will turn around this month!

Closeup of the products

• Theme: Glam It Up--The bag is a cute gold snakeskin with hot pink accents.
• Em Cosmetics Pillow Plush Cushiony Lip Balm--This cushiony, lip-smoothing balm gives your lips extra love with a sheer dose of color. Bright pops of color tints for a juicy lip look. 
• I received Bubblegum. Luckily, it doesn't smell like Bubblegum. Sephora used to make something similar that I LOVED, so I'm glad to have this. But at $15, there's no way I would purchase this.
• Be a Bombshell Lip Crayon in Shameless--A glossy lip crayon with a smooth texture that is perfect for travel and touch-ups on the go. 
• This is a beautiful color, but doesn't have long staying power. Great on top of lipstick, can be worn sheer or with several coats.
• Pixi Beauty Bronzer in Subtly Suntouched--This bronzing powder gives your complexion the warmth and luminosity of naturally sunkissed skin. Hydrating, silky-smooth & long-wearing, it also protects against free radicals. Contains Vitamin E to protect the skin and mica, which provides dense natural pigment. 
• Subtle is right. It seems to be pretty close to my skintone, so it's not really a bronzer. I've been using this as shadow instead and will probably give to my sister.
• Cailyn Built-In Sponge Tip Mineral Eye Shadow in Champagne--Made with 100% raw mineral powder, this highly-pigmented satiny powder not only colors your eyes with shimmery, gorgeous hues, but is also safe to wear long hours. Easy-to-use, built-in sponge tip allows smooth application and seamless blending of colors. 
• Beautiful color that is completely wearable any time of year for a highlight on the lid.
• Nailtini Straight Up Color Nail Lacquer in Caviar Cocktail--Just one of Nailtini's top-shelf, 3-free nail lacquer, available in dozens of shades, textures and finishes. Wear them alone or layered to create custom looks and effects, each one a cocktail unto itself. 
• This is my 4th Nailtini polish. I don't like the formula. I will keep it for nail art.
• Starlooks Gem Eye Pencil in Topaz--Providea a magnificent metallic finish and are so versatile, soft, and creamy that they can be used as a liner or eyeshadow base! Each highly-pigmented, unique pencil has a gorgeous, micro-glitter finish. 
• This is great for the holidays, but not something I'd wear daily. I like smudging it out on my lid for a glittery effect.

Swatches of this month's products

Interested in joining Ipsy? Then click here. It's only $10 a month!

PS: Check out my latest giveaways!

• $50 Gift Card
• Pulsaderm Cleaning brush

IPSY Bag for October (Video)

Quick rant alert: Argh!! So I had this all ready to go at midnight. And my video never processed. I uploaded it again and went to bed. It never uploaded. I tried a third time, and well, here it is! Ok, rant over. Just wanted to thank everyone for your sweet support when I shared Charlie's story yesterday and my beauty break! October is my favorite month (birthday, fall, pumpkins, Halloween, did I mention my bday?) and I swear it flies by the fastest! I can't believe this month is almost over. The only good thing about the month ending is that my month-long shopping ban will be over. At least I have some fun products to tide me over. Check out what I received in my Ipsy bag for October:

info via Ipsy site

• Zoya Polish in Mason: Part of the Fall 2013 CASHMERES & SATINS Collection, these shades are created to work together with this season's most stylish runway designs and luxurious fabric blends. These ultra long-wearing, glossy nail lacquers by Zoya are BIG5FREE - free of toluene, camphor, formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). ipsy subscribers will receive Neve, Giovanna, or Mason.
• Nourish Organic's new Deeply Nourishing Coconut & Argan Oil lotion is a new collection of ultra-moisturizing body lotions and body washes that hydrate, soften and smooth the skin. These products contain highly concentrated, precious ingredients that replenish your skin with essential nutrients and restore your skin's natural glow. The Deeply Nourishing Coconut & Argan Body Lotion is available for ipsy subscribers.
  - Moroccan Argan Oil, packed with restorative omega fatty acids, intensely hydrates and replenishes skin
  - Vitamin-rich coconut oil smoothes and softens skin
  - Antioxidant-rich hibiscus extract protects skin from environmental damage
  - Advanced, non-greasy formula clinically proven to deeply nourish and improve skin elasticity
  Nourish Organic is available exclusively at Target stores nationwide, www.Target.com and www.NourishOrganic.com. 
• The H2O Plus Face Oasis Hydrating Treatment is a clinically proven oil-free moisture gel that delivers deep hydration. Marine botanicals rapidly replenish depleted skin and fills surface lines with a surge of moisture. Vitamins A and E helps fight against environmental damage and phospholipid microspheres deliver time-released hydration to keep skin looking revitalized all day. 
• The Sexy Hair Spray Clay Texturizing Spray Clay creates and allover textured look with a matte finish. This spray allows for a fine and even product distrbution and is great for all hair types. To use: Spray into hair for pliable hold and texture to finish desired style.
• The Ofra Sultry Lipgloss and Plumper is a hydrating and plumpling lipgloss. Contains titanium dioxide to help protect lips from the sun. May be used alone or over lipstick to add shine.

To see what I thought about each product, please check out my 2 minute video, below.

If you can't view the video, try here or

http://youtu.be/tLwshvmdvyU

Interested in subbing to Ipsy?

Please use my subscription link below:

http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h050fba0slgrqh6

What fave products did you receive in your subscription boxes/bags?

IPSY Glam Bag for September (Video)

I can't believe October is nearly here AND that I'm finally feeling better enough to make a video. Yay all around! The videos you saw last week were from the beginning of the month. Anyway, I'm here to share what I received in my Ipsy Bag for September. Check it out:

• Classic Beauty was the theme this month. Does this bag make you think that? I think the products reflect the concept more than the bag.
• Skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool Firming Eye Pads--Pop these under your eyes for cooling relief and to lessen those bags.

• Elizabeth Mott It's So Big Volumizing Mascara--If you have thinner lashes, give this a try.
• J. Cat Beauty Lipstick--I received a nude shade.
• Starlooks Obsidian Kohl Eye Pencil--A dark pencil liner for smokey eyes.
• NYX Single Eye Shadow--I received this in Charcoal. Another great for smokey eyes.
• Paper Sample of EM Cosmetics--Threw this out on accident, but I already own other shadows from this line and have reviewed them.

{swatches of shadow, lipstick, liner}

To see what I thought of each product, 

check out this 2 minute video from my Youtube Channel (are you a subscriber?)

{still from video}

• If you're interested in joining Ipsy for $10 a month, please click here. Thank you!

Check Out: Wantable Box Review (Plus Video!)

I'm Guest Blogging while the lovely Jillian is in Italy (lucky!) over at Cornflake Dreams. Stop by!

Snapshot of my Wantable Video Review

If you've read this blog any length of time, you know I am drawn to a monthly sub box. I was naturally very excited when I was contacted by Wantable to review their makeup box. Not a beauty fan? Don't worry--they have one for accessories, too! All you have to decide is Baubles or Beauty! Check 'em out:

Price:

• $36/monthly or $40 per box
• 4-6 full-sized products from unique, specialty, premium brands
• Ships Internationally--check the site to see if your country is listed!
• They also have an Accessories box. And a newly-launched Intimates Box.

Profile Questionnaire:

• For almost all monthly sub boxes I've tried, I had to fill out a questionnaire in a means to cater the contents inside to fit my likes. Usually, this works so-so. But with Wantable, it is thorough, but very quick to fill out, using a sliding scale of Love-Like-Hate it.
• For example, say you clicked that you liked eye shadow. You're then asked what type of shadows you prefer, like matte, shimmer, loose, glitter, etc. It does this for all of the beauty products. I loved this!!

Product Quality:

• 4-6 full-sized products
• High-end brands that I've never mostly never tried, which is a cool way to discover new products!
• Each box is valued between $80-$100
• Not pleased with a box? Send it back for a refund--NO QUESTIONS ASKED

What I Received:

This month's box was curated by Jordon Liberty of Give Good Face.

I'm a huge fan of his, so I knew I could trust his opinion!

• Lisse Watier Light Up Lip Gloss
• Japonesque Travel Smudge Brush
• Mia Bellezza Matte Shadow in Soft Peach 
• LAQA & Co. Polish in Nookie
• Michael Marcus Kohl Cake Liner
• Extra: Lisse Watier Cream Shimmer Shadows in Peach and Sage
• PLUS a guide with product info, prices, tips, and tricks--LOVE THIS!

Swatches:

 Top coat is either Happy Birthday or Light It Up

Lisse Watier Lip Gloss

My Review & Overall Opinion of Wantable:

Check out the video above to see more about each product and my opinions.
I loved this box!

Ipsy Glam Bag: August (PLUS VIDEO)

It's time for another Ipsy Glam Bag review! It was all about the Glamour Academy this month. Let's see what I got:

Mica Cosmetics pigment in Bronze

-Great for blue eyes, and gives a foiled effect

Noya Vanilla Lip Balm

-It's kosher, organic, and well...it's a lip balm

Michael Todd Organic Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub

-A black masque that's great for oily skin.

Chella Brow Pencil in Brown

-Works well, but I usually skip filling in my brows

Pixi Lash Booster Mascara

-Didn't like it. Looked like I had nothing on. Very natural effect.

And here's a more in-depth video. Enjoy!

PS: If you're interested in Ipsy (it's only $10/month) please click my link.

Ipsy Glam Bag: JULY (Video!)

I am finally posting what I got in my Ipsy Glam Bag for July! The theme was "Beach Beauty." Let's check it out:

• POP's Pouty Pop Crayon nourishes, treats, and adds that perfectly-plumped pop to lips. These extra-nourishing balms gently bounce onto lips creating a plumped & pillowy pout leaving them with luscious, long-lasting color with a super-smooth texture. I got Coral Crush and love it.
• This BH Cosmetics palette includes a shade from each of the California Collection palettes: Hollywood, San Francisco, and Malibu. Chalky with some pigmentation.

• Coola Organic Sunscreen: Keep the sun and environment at bay with this SPF 20 broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen; a clear, Titanium Dioxide based formula (for those who are Zinc sensitive) made with 98% natural ingredients. This sunscreen is hypoallergenic, paraben-free, ultra sheer, anti-aging, and water resistant for 40 minutes. 
• Big Sexy Hair Weather Proof Hairspray: A high-performance humidity resistant spray that combats frizz by providing a protective barrier against moisture. Weather Proof promises to leave your hairstyles intact, removing any chance of humidity attacking mishaps. Didn't work for me.
• Nailtini is making sure your toes are nothing less than intoxicating this summer with our seasonal fave shade, Mai Tai. This rich creamy tangerine sunrise is the perfect complement to sandals and sun-kissed skin. 

Check out my review for each product in my video below:

PS: Wanna sub to Ipsy? Then please click my code!

Ipsy Glam Bag for June (Plus Video)

• So, prepare yourself for a long intro and some chit chat. First, how are you? I'm ok--we had some crazy weather last week, with a tornado warning. I didn't think it was a big deal but to experience scary weather outside made it seem like a big deal. I was walking Charlie when the sky got dark and the wind started like nothing I've experienced. I felt an immediate panic, grabbed Charlie, and ran for my life, because in movies the tornado appears and chases the actor, but here I was right in the middle, as it unfolded. Scary. Anyway, how was your weekend? Mine was great! I was in the mountains and the weather was amazing; a nice break from the Atlanta heat. Charlie loved all the new things to mark sniff. Did you see all my pics on Instagram?
• As requested by y'all for years, I started a YouTube channel a couple of months ago. This is huge for me, as I'm the most awkward person you've ever met. I tend to post a video a week and I have about 13. I embed them in the post, but if you want to subscribe to my channel, it's here. I'm ElleSeesYou over there and I always take requests.
• I had anonymous comments turned off on my blog last week, since spam has gotten out of control, but I've turned it off. Everything is back to normal. If only the spammers would leave!
• Last week was my annual Summer Week (did you see?) and next week is my annual Beach Week. I've got no-heat waves, my annual recipe for beachy waves, a beauty diy, and a nail tutorial. I hope you stop by.
• I also wanted to let y'all know this week I'm doing a few product reviews. One is sponsored, one is purchased by me, and the others are sent for review. I don't like having more than one pr review in a week, but that's how the timing worked out. I don't ever want this to become the "everything you see is sponsored or sent for review" blog, so no worries. My reviews are genuine, as you know. I know, I'm over-analyzing and worrying over nothing, but my integrity is so important to me. Just wanted to get that off my chest. Now onto the fun stuff! :)

This month's Ipsy Glam Bag theme for June is On the Wild Side. I took this to mean that I would receive products a little out of my comfort zone and "wild." I think I did! Let's see what I got:

• Animal print bag with chartreuse accents--cute
• Starlooks Lip Pencil (bare)--This taupe brown lip pencil would work on many skin tones, but not mine. I gave my already purple lips an even more purple look. But add some lipstick or gloss over it, and it's fine.
• Nyx Blush (sand)--I was convinced this was a shadow! This brown blush with golden shimmer again would look better on a skin tone other than mine. I chose to wear it as a blush in the pic and video below, but it's virtually undetectable. But I love to look at products in a different way, so I've used it as bronzer (not to contour), eyeshadow, blush, and polish.
• J. Cat Beauty Sparkling Cream Palette (volta) --A glitter cream palette that is helpful for Halloween, fantasy or cosplay, recitals or competitions (or the club, I ain't judging!), but not really for me.
• Chella Ivory Lace Highlighter Pencil--I love a highlighter pencil because it has so many uses! It's creamy and doesn't drag on the skin. I use mine to highlight my brows, inner corners, tightline, and my lips.
• J. Cat Beauty Eyelash (47)--These are some extreme lashes! I'll keep these for Halloween. I like that it came with latex-free glue and the glue is black.

Me, wearing some items from this month's bag!

Video time! Enjoy me, squinting at the camera because my glasses are off, as well as cheesy sound effects and a Charlie cameo. But seriously, here's my review of what I received in my Ipsy Glam Bag for June:

If interested in joining Ipsy for $10/month, click my affiliate code here: http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h050fba0slgrqh6

What did you receive in your Ipsy or Subscription Box?

Ipsy Glam Bag: May (Bonus Video)

Who doesn't love getting something other than bills in the mail? I especially love a package full of beauty products to play with. Today I'm sharing my Ipsy Glam bag for May. The theme is "Spring Fling" and let's check out what I received (video at the end):

• Chevron print bag--CUTE! It's turquoise and orange, but the photo is reading blue
• Urban Decay Moon Dust Shadow in Space Cowboy--This was an extra sent to some members. It's so dang sparkly. I'm turning it into a polish.

• Pacifica Roll-On Perfume in Island Vanilla--A light vanilla perfume, perfect for your purse.
• Yaby Concealer in Buff--Nice, creamy concealer, and once the container is empty, I can reuse it for concealer or lipstick samples.
• Anastasia Clear Brow Gel--This is the best of the best!
• Mirabella Lipstick in Posy--A pretty, soft red that's buildable.
• Zoya Polish in Gie Gie--A soft, pretty shimmery pink that's perfect for spring and summer.

Interested? Check it out here: http://www.ipsy.com/?refer=u-h050fba0slgrqh6



If I look a little rough, it's because of some issues I've been dealing with on Instagram concerning my last giveaway. I want to thank all of you who said the sweetest things and spoke up for me. I consider myself to be nice, fair, and shy. I'm not one to rock the boat, and am a people-pleaser, but when I felt like my integrity was being questioned, I couldn't take it. I'm truly touched, so thank you. :)

Wearing all the products shown, minus the bag! ;)

Ipsy Glam Bag & PopSugar Must Have Box: April

Hey you! How was your weekend? I have a cold, but I didn't let that stop my from driving back home to see my Lil Sis star as "Marty" in Grease. I was so proud of her and she did well! Since she was one of the Pink Ladies, I thought it was only fitting to start off with this month's Ipsy bag, themed "Pretty in Pink."
Three of the products were full size, which I really liked.

• Be A Bombshell Blush--A highly pigmented pressed powder blush that highlights the complexion and provides long lasting color. Can be used both as a blush or a bronzer. Glam Bag subscribers will receive Beach Please, a bright matte pink OR Sweet Cheeks, a medium rose pink with shimmer. I received Sweet Cheeks.
• Sexy Hair Soy Renewal-- The nourishing styling treatment with multiple benefits! Speeds up blow drying time, nourishes and protects hair, and enhances shine. Made with Moroccan Argan Oil, Soy Renewal addresses moisture, frizz, smoothness, elasticity and shine concerns, while protecting against heat and environmental stresses. It made my hair softer and did ok with frizz. The other sample others received was a hair powder.

• MicaBeauty Mineral Eyeshadows--Extremely gentle, free of preservatives, chemicals, dyes, talc, oils, and other fillers. With this unique formula, the eyeshadows will look ultra smooth and stay put for hours without creasing or pulling the delicate eye area. Can be mixed with clear lip-gloss, clear mascara, and clear nail polish to add pigment to lips, eyelashes and nails! Glam Bag subscribers who receive this product will receive Earth, a light shimmery pink. It is a pretty shadow but I rarely wear something this shimmery, and would have preferred the sample others received. I'll probably turn this into polish.
• Sation Nail Lacquer--A contemporary beauty company, infusing a creative direction in nail care through a blend of lifestyle aesthetics. The collection features 120 colors from its seasonal & limited collections.
• Glam Bag subscribers will receive Of Corset I'll Call You, a romantic lavender-rose OR Love At First Byte, a light peachy pink. I received the former. It's a pretty color but takes many coats to see the true color.

My PopSugar Must-Have Box was a little underwhelming, to say the least. But I do like that it's eco-themed, in honor of today's Earth Day. Here's what I got:

• The Green Garmento Four-in-One Reusable Dry-Cleaning Bag--It looks like a black garment bag, but it's much more than that. It can be used as a laundry bag, hamper, duffel, and garment bag. I do love a multi-purpose product!
• Tatcha Petal Fresh Evening Aburatorigami Beauty Papers--What's the deal with the long names for products this month? This mouthful translates to "blotting papers." I like using my Starbucks napkins, but these are small and they work well.
• Shashi New Nugget Bracelet--As you can see in the pic, it doesn't form a circle, so it fits awkwardly on my wrist. I like adding it to other bracelets.
• Kai Perfume Oil--This classic scent of gardenia and white exotic flowers has a devoted celebrity following. It smells like a Demeter perfume.
• Alter Eco Dark Quinoa Chocolate--This is like a fanicer, darker, and healthier (?) version of a Nestle Crunch. It's fair trade and organic. It was tasty.

Leave links to your subscription boxes and bags so I can read your reviews!