COVERGIRL Lip Perfection Lip Color: Review + Swatches + Photos

I've been in love with COVERGIRL's Lip Perfection Lip Colors for a bit now. I was organizing my makeup collection and realized I hardly own lipsticks and instead have so many lipglosses. Slowly, I've been picking up these lipsticks at Rite Aid. I'm waiting until next week to look at more colors since Rite Aid will be having a 40% off sale on COVERGIRL cosmetics.

I only own 6 of the vast array of shades that this collection has to offer and am really liking the color payoff. I would get all the shades if I could... hehe.

COVERGIRL says:

• Bright, gorgeous color that can transform your day and your lips.
• Enriched with a silk moisturizing complex.
• Formula helps sustain moisture levels and helps create soft, smooth, beautiful lips in just 7 days.
• Beautiful rich color.

I say:

• Application does go on smoothly, no dragging and leaves lips moisturized but I don't think that it has made my lips softer throughout the week.
• Color payoff is nice. Highly pigmented colors that go on evenly.
• Color preview on end of tubes is nice and are very close to lipstick color.
• I like the gunmetal finish and square tubing, looks very modern.
• Nice vanilla-like scent.
• Lightweight packaging.
• Love that there is 44 different shades to choose from (all split into categories: Browns, Lilacs/Mauves/Burgundies, Nudes/Corals/Reds, and Pinks/Roses) Everyone should be able to find the right shade.
• Some are a cream finish and others are frosty.

Bottom to Top: Embrace -- Eternal -- Rapture

Tube Color Previews Left to Right: Embrace -- Eternal -- Rapture

Embrace 335 (intense warm purple - cream finish)

Eternal 350 (intense bright pink - cream finish)

Rapture 280 (warm neutral coral - frosty finish)

Bottom to Top: Smitten -- Darling -- Hypnotic

Left to Right: Smitten -- Darling -- Hypnotic

Smitten 310 (warm dark mauve - cream finish)

Darling 395 (warm neutral pink - cream finish)

Hypnotic 220 (warm orange/brown - frost finish)

I swatched the lip colors on my arm so you can see the contrast on skin tone. To achieve skin tones hues you might want to use a lip erase cream that will cancel out the natural hue of your lips. I have seen that Mac carries a lip erase.

Swatches w/ Flash L to R: Embrace - Eternal - Rapture - Smitten - Darling - Hypnotic

Swatches w/o Flash L to R: Embrace - Eternal - Rapture - Smitten - Darling - Hypnotic

Will you pick up any of CG lip colors? Which one is your favorite?

LOFT: Marbled Drops Bib Necklace

The same day that I had my Chico's haul I had about 5 minutes to stop into LOFT.. (they were closing).. there was a sale going on and they were offering an additional 40% off sale items.. I didn't get to check out the clothes on sale =(  but I did check out the jewelry since it was the closest to the register ;) and I found this cute marbled bib necklace.. for what I think is a pretty good price considering it's from LOFT..

LOFT Marbled Drops Bib Necklace
Retail: $39.50 Paid: $8.99

I really like the layering of the stones as well as the color tones. This necklace is such a delicate looking piece that would be perfect in spicing up any plain work outfit. The metal finish is more of a bronze finish (the pic came out as a gold finish). The rope finish is soft to the touch and allows this piece to be versatile for any type of outfit.

Close-up of stones

Chain Extension w/ Lobster Claw Clasp

Measurements:

Chain Length w/ Extender: Approx. 12.5"

Max. Width: Approx. 7.5"

Original Cost ($39.50) ~ Sale Price ($14.99) - 40% off ($6.00)

Total Cost w/ tax = 9.38

Saved = $30.51

What do you think of this piece? Leave a comment below..

Covergirl: New Natureluxe Collection + Review + Photos

I recently signed up to become a BzzAgent and received my first BzzCampaign kit in the mail a few days ago. (Pic below) I was sent free full-size samples of the Natureluxe Liquid Silk Foundation (350 Oak) and the Natureluxe Gloss Balm (215 Hibiscus). The Covergirl Natureluxe Collection is something I have been wanting to try out for a little while now and I'm glad that becoming a BzzAgent allows me to experience it for free..

BzzAgent Covergirl Kit: CG Natureluxe BzzGuide, full-size sample of Foundation & Gloss Balm, & Coupons

Gloss Balm (215 Hibiscus) & Liquid Silk Foundation (350 Oak) 

Foundation Facts:

• 8 out of 10 pro make-up artists agree the liquid silk foundation provides a luxurious skin finish and light luxurious feel.
• Trades in a heavier emollient for a a refreshing cucumber water and a hint of natural jojoba & rosehip extracts to help balance the creaminess on application, delivering a flawless coverage.
• Available in 14 shades (light - dark tones).
• Oil-free, SPF 10 and dermatologically tested.
• Suggested retail: $11.99

Applied Application: Liquid Silk Foundation (350 Oak)

Blended Application: Liquid Silk Foundation (350 Oak)

Gloss Balm Facts:

• 9 out of 10 pro make-up artists would recommend it to clients for a sheer color with a non-sticky, lightweight feel.
• Contains a lightweight blend of mango, shea & other natural butters.
• Available in 16 versatile, beautiful shades.
• SPF 15
• Suggested retail: $6.49

Swatch: Gloss Balm (215 Hibiscus)

Gloss Balm (215 Hibiscus) - w/ Flash

Gloss Balm (215 Hibiscus) - w/o Flash

My Opinion (Foundation):

• Agreed- does provide a silky & smooth application. 
• Feels lightweight, almost as if I had no foundation on my face.
• Nice refreshing scent, does not smell of chemicals.
• Provides light coverage- not enough coverage for me since I have freckles and heavy dark circles. I recommend for light foundation users or first-timers.

My Opinion (Gloss Balm):

• Agreed- provides a sheer color with just a bit of perfect shine.
• Balm is non-sticky and very lightweight.
• Color is beautiful. I thought the color would be a bit more like a lipstick color but I was surprised to find how sheer and light it was and felt.
• Great light sweet scent, no smell of chemicals.
• I recommend this balm to anyone. 
• Another one of my favorite products.

Face:

Victoria's Secret Eye Flash Liquid Brightening Pen (Spotlight), on eyelids and under eyes to help w/ my dark circles

Maybeliine NY 24 Hour Super Stay Concealer (Light), over VS Eye Flash on eyelids and dark circles

CoverGirl Natureluxe Silk Foundation (Oak), all over face

e.lf. Shimmering Facial Whip (Toasted), applied to hollows of cheeks and up the cheekbone with finger

Maybelline NY Expert Wear Blush (Gentle Rose), applied with blush brush on apples of cheeks

CoverGirl Clean Pressed Powder (Soft Honey), applied over entire face and neck

Brows:

MAKE UP FOREVER PRO Waterproof Eyebrow Corrector  (#0), applied with small e.l.f. angled brush

Eyes:

Maybelline NY Expert Wear Eyeshadow Quad (Sunlit Bronze)

 - Light Gold on browbone and inner corner of eye until half of eyelid

- Gold on remaining half of eyelid and small amount of crease
- Bronze on outer V of eye and on crease
- Warm Brown on outer V of eye and on crease

mark. Get In Line Hookup Waterproof Eyeliner (Painted Black), on top lash line

mark. No Place To Run Longwear Eyeliner (Jetset), on lower lash line and water line

CoverGirl Water Resistant Lash Blast Fusion (Black), on top and bottom lashes

Lips:
CoverGirl Natureluxe Gloss Balm (Hibiscus)

Chico's Haul + Photos

iPod Rotation: Jonelle Monae- Smile

I accompanied my mother to Chico's a few days ago. She wanted to pick up some new clothes and I ended up leaving with more than she did... But I got cute things for cheap!! LOL

Let me start off by saying that Chico's has some really nice accessory pieces but retail price is a bit high =(  Lucky me, they were having a sale and offered an additional 30% off on sale items. Soooo as my mami was in the fitting room I browsed the accessories sale section (hehe) and I must say I came out with some fabulous finds at a tremendous bargain! To top off this great sale, I got another 5% off for being a Chico's passport member and had a coupon.. So without further ado, my latest additions to the wardrobe:

Ikat Small Clutch- Brown/Blue
Retail: $69  Paid: $11.94

Measurements: 

Length 11.25" x Width 2.5" closed x Height 6.5"

Open width 5.5"

This clutch is so versatile with brown/blue/black/light beige/grey tones. The shell and lining are 100% silk and the size is perfect for me. This is the size I want when looking for a clutch. I can fit my lipgloss, blackberry, camera, money, ID, liner (basically, my going out essentials). It's anything but "small." I saw the clutch a while back in another Chico's in Edgewater, NJ and fell in love, but then saw the price tag and my heart broke. LOL So you can imagine my excitement when I saw it on sale.

Cyzarine Neckalce - Blue/Aqua
Retail: $48  Paid: $9.56

        Stone Detailed Close-up                   Lobster Claw Clasp

Measurements:

Chain Length w/ extender: 13''

Width: 7"

Love the blue tones of this piece. So simple but yet so regal. (If that makes any sense, lol) With a bronze metallic finish, this piece doesn't overpower the blue stones, making it a versatile piece that can be done up with a fancy dress or worn with nice blue skinny jeans, a white tank and a variety of different color shoes.

Lottie Earrings - Blue/Aqua
Retail: $20  Paid: $4.78

Close-ups

Measurements:

Approx. 3.25" in length

These earrings match the necklace beautifully. But I do think that wearing them both together is a bit much (for me). I love the detailed cracking in the aqua stone.

Angia Hoop Earrings - Blue/Red Orange/Brown
Retail: $22  Paid: $4.78

Front/Side Views

Measurements:

Approx. 2" in length

1.5" in diameter

These are just too cute! Bronze metallic finished hoops covered by blue and red-orange beads and a underlay of brown intricate braiding are what caught my eye! And they go with my new clutch! ;)

Thanks Chico's! Time to tally up this haul!

Ikat Clutch original ($69) ~ Paid ($11.94)

Cyzarine Stone Necklace original ($48) ~ Paid ($9.56)

Lottie Blue Earrings original ($20) ~ Paid ($4.78)

Angia Hoop Earrings original ($22) ~ Paid ($4.78)

Total Paid= $31.06      

Saved= $127.94  (80% saved)

Did you get any goodies at Chico's?

mark. hookups + photos + review

iPod Rotation: B.o.B.- Nothing On You

If you haven't explored mark. products yet, now is the time to do so! They have this pretty awesome hookup system where you can interchange a variety of different mark. hookup items; from lipgloss to mascara to concealer to brushes.. you get my drift. So many things to choose from..

Image Source: http://www.meetmark.com

Here's how it works:

• Get a hookup connector (pictured below). Each connector has 1 opening on each side of it, fitting 2 hookup items. 

Image Source: http://www.meetmark.com

• Choose any mark hookup products (each comes with a top cover).

mini mark it stick for lips "berry"- hookup connector - mini mark it stick for eyes "pink opal" 

• Just simply click them into one of the openings. It's as simple as that!
• Best part is that you can interchange them at any time and as often as you'd like.

Example of interchangeable hookups

• Size with 2 hookups attached is perfect for carrying in your purse when you are on the go. Carry your lipgloss & fave mark. fragrance during the day and swap out for a lipstick and liquid eyeliner for the night out touch ups! (Connector + hookup measures about 5"-5 1/4" long)

mini mark it stick for lips (top) & get in line liquid liner (bottom)

• The hardest part is choosing what to get and in what colors! Or you can just get them all! Hehe

mark. offers affordable pricing for good-quality makeup. Hookups retail for $6-$8. And the connector is a mere $.50. But for some time now, they have been offering a free hook up connector when you buy 2 hookup items!

When I need to stock up on items I go through my favorite mark. rep, Kristy! She is very knowledgeable about mark. products and is prompt with placing orders and getting them to me asap through secure and reliable transactions! So when you can't resist buying your hookups, make sure you hit up Kristy! You can go through her mark. store site or mark. FB page. (Direct links below) Make sure you also "Like" her FB page where she also offers great promos and tips!

Urmarkgirl Online Store

Urmarkgirl Facebook Page

What's your fave mark. hookup?

NOTD: Plumy-Pink Hanky

I try being creative when naming my manicure creations and this mani reminds me of a purple handkerchief.. hence the name.. LOL

Natural Sunlight
Base Color: E.L.F.- Plum
Konad Plate: m64
Konad Color: Sally Hansen Chrome- Pink Pearl Chrome
Top Coat: Sally Hansen Diamond Strength- Flawless

I have a bunch of E.L.F. polishes that I bought on a whim because they are only $1 each and there was a 50% off sale on the website. For the price they are pretty good. The color goes on great and comes out shiny. The only downside is that it begins to chip within 2-3 days. But ever since I've been using the SH Diamond Strength as a top coat these polishes last for a long time (1-1.5 weeks). 

Indoor Light

The SH Chrome Nail Makeups are incredible for konading. If you can get your hands on any of these polishes, do so quickly!! SH discontinued the collection a while ago and finding them is a bit difficult but you can still find some of them on Ebay..

        Konad Plate m64                   SH Chrome- Pink Pearl Chrome

Natural Sunlight

Which is your fave Sally Hansen Chrome color?

Oh Yes I Did! Zigi Soho Kelis + Photos

So if you saw my first blog post you saw that I got the Zigi Soho Kelis pumps in black for a mere $1.04. Wellllllllll.. I got them in tan also.. =x

When I bought the black ones I was debating on which color I would get and I was dying for the tan ones but decided to be more practical and go with a color that won't get destroyed as easily, hence the black ones. But, I did tell my as equally shopaholic cousin that if one day I have the opportunity to get the tan ones for the same price then I would get them. On a day that she needed to make a return at DSW I decided to browse the store with no intention of buying anything although I did have a DSW coupon and a bunch of gift cards I received from Frenzies..

They were no longer up on display, they must have been sold out quickly and why wouldn't they?! They're gorgeous! As I looked through the small section of 6-6.5 sizes on clearance I had one of those (Ahhhhhhh bright-shining light) moments.. What was there, you ask? The Zigi Soho Kelis in tan AND IN MY SIZE! You had to see how quick I grabbed them before anyone else did.. LOL As I looked for my cousin I thought "Man, she's gonna be pissed at my luck.." Oh, yes she was.. hehe And here I present you my new babies...

Zigi Soho Kelis (Tan)

Natural Sunlight

Natural Sunlight + Indoor Light

Natural Sunlight + Indoor Light

In order to use the coupon I had with me I had to add a few bucks to my purchase, so I got a water proofer for my suede pumps and sure steps for heels that have slippery bottoms.

Zigi Soho Kelis - Water Proofer Spray - Sure Steps

Zigi Shoes original ($59.95) ~ 30% off sale ($17.99) - $20 off $49 coupon ($16.50) = $25.46

Water Proofer Spray ($4.95) - $20 off $49 coupon ($1.95) = $3.00

Sure Steps ($3.95) - $20 off $49 coupon ($1.55) = $2.40

Total w/tax = $32.45 - $30 worth of gift cards = $2.45

Saved = $77.04

I can't stress enough, how much I heart DSW..

Do you own any Zigi Soho's?

CVS Haul-> New Loves

A few weeks back I went to CVS for a small haul and since then I've found some new true loves.. I decided to pick up Clean & Clear's Body washes in "Pomegranate & Orange Zest" and in "Wildberry & Guava." I don't usually use body washes when showering and just rely on body soap but since they were free, I was definitely trying them! 

C&C Body Wash original ($6.29) ~ on sale ($2.99) - $1 mfr coupon - $1 ECB = FREE

C&C Body Wash original ($6.29) ~ on sale ($2.99) - $1 mfr coupon - $1 ECB = FREE

Let's just say that after using the C&C Pomegranate & Orange Zest Body wash for a week, I'm hooked!! They both smell A-MA-ZING, better than anything I've smelled before (as far as products go). After showering with this, I feel so refreshed! I guess that's why it's called morning burst body wash. Hehe..

C&C Body Pomegranate & Orange Zest--Wildberry & Guava

I also picked up a twin pack of Renu Mulit-purpose Solution, a twin pack of toothpicks, and a Renuzit Renew Pearls for my room. I've been using Renu since I first began wearing prescription contacts 13 years ago. Final cost for the entire pack was $.99 and that's a huge deal if you are a longer time contact wearer. I picked up the toothpicks because we needed some in the house and they were cheap. I have never tried the Renuzit Pearls before but I'm liking them so far because they leave my room smelling fresh. The next scent I want to pick up is "After the Rain." In my opinion it smells better than "Fresh Lavender."

Renu original ($16.79) ~ on sale ($12.99) - $5 mfr coupon - $4 ECB - $3 ECB= $.99

Twin Pack Toothpicks original ($1) ~ 50% off sale = $.49

Renuzit Renew Pearls original ($4.39) ~ on sale ($2.50) - $1 mfr coupon = $1.50

Total w/ tax= $3.47  Saved= $31.78

Renu Solution Twin Pack--Renuzit Renew Pearls--Toothpicks Twin Pack

Renuzit Renew Pearls (Fresh Lavender)

Are you taking advantage of any deals?