DIY Leg Warmers

This post is for all my fashion DIY-ers!  All you need for this project is an old sweater, some scissors, a needle, pins, and thread to match the color of your sweater!  It’s pretty much inevitable that overtime our clothes shrink or get misshapen.  I’ve had this sweater since high school but haven’t worn in in at least 4 years because it has definitely shrunk.  This is probably a sign that I have a problem with getting rid of old clothes, but in this case, I’m really glad that I didn’t get rid of it!   

The first step is cutting off both the sleeves.  (you can really see here how much the body of the sweater shrunk!)

 

After you cut the sleeves off, turn them inside out and fold the rough edge you just cut over and pin. 

After you’ve pinned them, it’s time to sew!  Use a zig zag stitch so that when the top stretches to put them on, it won’t break your thread.  (since my thread was white, it’s hard to see, so here’s what a zig zag stitch looks like)

After you’re done sewing, turn your leg warmers right side out and you’re done!

Such a fun way to revive your old tired sweaters!

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

November 2014 Ipsy

First of all, let me apologize for not posting last week.  I went to Florida for Thanksgiving with my parents and not so little sister.  We had a great time even though it was a little too cold for proper beach attire.  Here we are "twinning" in our matching sweaters and necklaces!  There was obviously some sun and LOTS of wind!

Now on to what you actually came here for.  November’s Ipsy theme was Girl Meets Glitter. I love the bag this month!  The glitter is covered in plastic so you don't have to worry about it making a mess!  Overall I was really happy with what I got!

SeaRx Birch Sap Moisturizing Lotion; Full size $32, Sample Size $2 – Even though this was such a small sample, I was so glad I got to try it!  It’s not greasy and it smells like grapefruit!  The only thing I don’t like about this is there’s no SPF.  The full size is also a lot more than what I want to pay for a moisturizer. http://searxbeauty.com/advanced-scar-gel-15.html

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Corrector; Full Size $24, Sample Size $9.46 – I've been searching for a new under eye concealer so I was really excited that I got this!  It works OK, but its still not that miracle in a tube that I’m really looking for.  

http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod5770259#

J Cat Beauty Wonder Lip Paint Full Size $4.99 - My first thought when I saw this was "ewww".  The color is a dark hot pink, almost on the verge of purple.  I decided to try it just to see if it looked better on.  Surprisingly it wasn't quite as drastic as I thought it would be...as long as you use a tiny bit.  

http://jcatbeauty.com/wonder-lip-paint

Marc Anthony Oil Of Morocco Argan Oil Volume Shine Hairspray; Full Size $8.99, Sample Size $1.65 - I really love this hairspray!  It holds your hair in place but isn't crunchy at all.  I was worried about how it would smell, but I really love it.  I will definitely buy this in the future!

http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod5250301

Starlooks Gem eye Pencil in Ultra Olive Full Size $17 - This is a green glittery eyeliner.  At first I was really not too excited about this.  How does one wear a green glittery eyeliner?  I'm still not really sure how you're supposed to wear it.  I put it on with darker eye shadow just on my top lid.  Then I put a thin line of black over it.  I actually liked how it looked and since it's full size, it should last a while!

http://starlooks.com/collections/eyes/products/new-gem-eye-pencil-colors-ft-in-nov-14-ipsy-glam-bag

This month's bag was great!  The total Value of what I got was $35.10 which is lower than most months, but I don't mind since I was happy with pretty much everything that I got.  I'm really looking forward to December's bag! If you're thinking of trying Ipsy, do it!  It's totally worth the $10 a month!  Here's my referral link! http://www.ipsy.com/r/6b49?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general

Thanks for reading!!

~Sarah

October 2014 PINCHme

 A few days ago I received my October samples from PINCHme.  I think I’ve talked about them before, but PINCHme is an online sample site that anyone can sign up for.  Once a month they have a sample day and you can request samples of newer products that companies are testing and want feedback on.

The items that I got in October were actually pretty pitiful. 

The first thing I got was a sample of the American Crew Power Cleanser Style Remover.  This is a shampoo to remove hair product buildup.  I don’t really use a lot of product in my hair but I figured it wouldn't hurt to try it.  Then I opened it.  The only conclusion I could come to was that this product is intended for users of the male persuasion.  It smelled like strong cologne.  Needless to say, I didn't try it.   After looking at the website, I have determined that it is definitely for men.  Unfortunately I didn't know that before I opened it and since it came in a foil packet, I can’t even give it to someone else.  Ooops.

The next thing is a sample of the Bullet Pocket Acne Aid.  This is a spot treatment/daily preventative face gel.  I haven’t actually used this yet, because I wanted to save it for a time of great need.  From what I can figure out, it’s not a face wash.  You just put in on any trouble areas.  There’s no need to wash your face before either.  This concept actually seems really strange to me.  I think when I use it I’ll wash my face like normal and apply before bed.  I don’t know if I’ll really get the full effect from this since it is such a small sample, but it’s worth a shot! (Get it?  Bullet…Shot…?  OK, OK, moving on.)

The last item that I got is a full size Sheamoisture African Black Soap Face and Body Bar.  As the name suggests the soap itself is black.  Now if you’re anything like me, the thought of using black soap on your face will give you a little bit of anxiety.  However, if you press on like me and try it anyways, you will realize that it’s actually really nice!  I don’t like to try new face washes because they normally break me out, but this is really gentle and very cleansing.  My only complaint is the smell.  I can’t really describe it, but it would definitely not be my first choice in face soap scents.  It’s not that its bad…it’s just not good.  Anyway, despite the smell, I really like this face wash and will definitely use it!

Unfortunately I didn't get any PINCHme samples in November so it may be a couple months before I have another post like this. 

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

Fall Nail Polish Finds

If you've read my blog before, you know I’m a sucker for OPI nail polish.  I know it’s good quality and there are so many colors to choose from!  I recently found some at TJ Maxx and Ross that was just too good a deal to pass up!

I found the four colors below at TJ Maxx for $3.99 a piece!  Just for reference the normal price for a bottle of OPI is anywhere from $8-$10.

Roadhouse Blues – When I first picked this up I thought it was a purple, but after closer examination (and reading the name), I realized it was a deep navy blue!  I don’t usually wear super dark colors like this, but I decided it would be a good staple to add to my collection!  It’s also a great color for fall!

The two on the left are part of the OPI Mustang Collection. 

Girls Love Ponies – It’s pink and so I decided it must be mine.  No further explanation necessary.

Angel With A Lead Foot – One of my favorite YouTuber’s was talking about this white in her fall nail polish picks video that I had just watched before I found it. (You should check out her channel here https://www.youtube.com/user/amylynnbeauty)  She recommended that you get it if you find it, so I did as I was told!

In True Stefani Fashion – Who doesn't love a great glitter polish?  Although it’s such a pain to get off your nails, I can’t resist the sparkle!  This is silver with various sizes of glitter that will be great on its own or on top of another color.  I used it on top of a mint green color and got several compliments on it!

Finally, I found these two colors in a set together at Ross for $5.99.  That’s $3 a piece people!!!

Miss Piggy's Big Number – This is a great sparkly sapphire blue.  Like I mentioned before, I didn't have a lot of blue polishes before, so I’m working on expanding my collection!

Muppets World Tour - Another glitter, but this also has larger flecks of silver and blue in it.  I wore this over a light pink a few weeks ago and loved it!  I’m guessing since they were sold together it’s intended to wear over Miss Piggy’s Big Number so I’ll definitely try that out soon!

If you like OPI polish but feel guilty spending $10 on a bottle of nail polish, definitely check out Ross, Marshall's, and TJMaxx!  While they may not have the widest selection, you can’t beat that price and you never know what you may find!

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

Beauty and the Boots

So it’s officially fall, and you know what that means!  Time to break out the sweaters, scarves, and boots!  Only problem is it may be difficult to afford all that great fall fashion on a limited budget!  I can usually find good deals on sweaters and scarves just about anywhere throughout the year, but finding a good deal on shoes is not always an easy task.  You can look at Ross, or TJ Maxx for discounted name brands but those can still be pricey and they usually don’t have a very wide selection.  So what if the brand doesn’t matter to you as much as the price and style?

If you’re not living under a rock, I’m sure you’ve heard of JustFab or Shoedazzle.  These are online retailers best known for their footwear. 

I signed up for JustFab.com last year and got an introductory offer of $19.99 and free shipping on my first purchase.  I bought this pair of flat brown boots and I absolutely love them.  It was my first time buying shoes online which made me nervous, but I am so glad that I took the risk.  These are the perfect everyday boot!  They’re no Tory Burch, but I get compliments on them all the time and I’m proud to say I spent less than $20 on them!

Last week I decided to sign up for Shoedazzle.com just to see what they had to offer.  Little did I know that they were having a special of $9.99 plus free shipping on your first purchase!  I had been looking for a pair of black flat boots for over a year and $10 was just too good a deal to pass up!  I ended up picking Sylvee.  They’re very comparable to the pair I got last year in quality and they were just what I was looking for!  The material around your calf is slouchy which is what I was expecting and I really like.  The only bad thing is the fabric folds in different places on each boot.  This is obviously my OCD side coming out because there's no way they could have been made exactly the same.  I'm probably the only one who notices or even cares!

My sister also got two pair from JustFab a couple weeks ago!  The first pair was Zella in black and she got these for $9.99!  The second pair is Jewelle in brown which she paid the regular VIP price of $39.95.  

Here's what she had to say about her new boots!

I was worried to buy boots online because I didn't think they'd fit or they'd look cheap, but JustFab allows you to return any shoes that don't fit to get the right size.  I took the risk and was so happy that I did.  The two pairs of boots that I bought have become essential parts of my wardrobe.  When I buy shoes that I like, I tend to wear them non stop and that's what's been happening with these boots.  They fit so well, are extremely comfortable, and are very fashionable.  The main part of the boot that I was afraid would be too big was the top of the boot that goes around my calf.  Most that I try on are too big and flap around, but these ones are tight enough that I can wear them with a skirt and they still look good.  My only problem is with the buckle at the top.  There is a little tab that will get folded the wrong way when you cross your legs if you're not careful, then it sticks out instead of laying flat. But that is such a small thing.  I'm very excited about my purchase and don't regret it at all.

The only downside to signing up for either of these websites is that it is a membership.  There’s no monthly fee per se, but you have to sign on to their website before the 5^th of each month to “skip the month” if you don’t want to buy anything.  If you don’t do this by the 5^th, your card gets charged for $39.95 (the normal price of most of the shoes) and it is added as a credit to your account.  You can however call and cancel at any time.

What I suggest, is that if you do find something you like, you join the website and make a purchase with the introductory discount (Sometimes $9.99, $19.99, or 2 for $40).  Who can pass up a pair of boots for $10?  Like I said, don’t expect the quality of a designer shoe, but they are definitely worth every bit of $10 or $20 a pair!  Just remember to go in and skip at the beginning of each month, or call and cancel after you get your shoes.  They have pretty much every style of shoe imaginable so if you’re more interested in flats or heels you should still check it out! 

Thanks for reading!!

~Sarah

Confessions of a Shopaholic

So I went shopping this weekend (I know, complete shocker), and I just had to share some of the amazing deals I found!  Stores usually have some of their best deals as the seasons are changing.  This is when they’re bringing out all their new merchandise and they have to make room for it all somehow!  While you probably don’t need any of those shorts or bikinis that are on clearance, you never know what else you may find!   

Bath & Body Works currently has all of their fall scents 50% off!  (And we all know what a sucker I am for B&BW!!)  They also had a Facebook coupon last week for a free body cream with any purchase that I hope some of you were able to take advantage of.  I bought a Nutmeg & Spice wallflower refill for 50% off and got this Moonlight Path 24 hour body cream for free!  The Nutmeg & Spice is a great fall scent, and I'm currently obsessed with all things fall.  My first choice in lotion is always Twilight Woods, but I got a free body cream a couple weeks ago in that scent, so I went for Moonlight Path which is probably my second favorite B&BW scent!  Total Retail Value of the two items; $19, I paid $3.56!

Charming Charlie’s is one of the most overwhelming, yet completely wonderful stores in the mall!  If you’re ever looking for a specific color necklace, scarf, or bracelet, it’s seriously the place to go!  They also have a clearance corner that’s full of amazing deals!  This weekend they had a special on all clearance bracelets, 2 for $5.  I ended up buying a silver and gold that I can pair with pretty much anything.  Total Retail Value $28, I paid $5.52!

While I normally don’t shop in Wet Seal, the 70% off sign out front intrigued me.  What the heck; I’m here, I’ve got time, let’s check it out!  While most of what they had was not really my style, I did find a few great items!  My favorite thing I bought was this black and white striped dress!  It’s a super comfortable cotton dress with capped sleeves that is easy to dress up or down!  It was almost 80 degrees on Tuesday so I wore it to work paired with a pink bauble necklace and cardigan!  Total Retail Value $32, I paid $5.40!

Seriously people, I can’t make this stuff up!   Next time you’re shopping, go straight to the clearance racks!  It’s definitely worth checking out.  You never know what sort of treasures await! 

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

October 2014 Ipsy

Ipsy’s October theme was beauty candy.  This month wasn’t really a great one for the products, but the makeup bag that they came in is one of my favorites!  It is a teal quilted bag with a side zipper.

I got 5 items this month with a good variety of products.  (But not enough makeup if you ask me…I know, it seems like I say that every month!)

Figs & Rouge Rose Berry Shea Butter Hand Cream $6.56 full size – I don’t have much to say about this since it’s a hand cream and pretty self-explanatory.  It does smell nice and it’s a great size to throw into your purse or keep at work! 

http://www.feelunique.com/p/Figs-and-Rouge-Rose-Berry-Shea-Butter-Hand-Cream-20ml

MICA Beauty Mineral Eye Shadow; $14.95 full size in Reluctance – I really like mineral eye shadow, so my only complaint with this is the color.  It’s a very pretty shimmery green, but I don’t usually wear green eye shadow. 

http://www.micabeauty.com/mineral-eye-shadow-earth-colors.html

Nourish Organic Moisturizing Organic Face Cleanser with Cucumber and Watercress $13.99 full size, trial size $2.34 – I have to say that I absolutely hate trying new facial cleansers.  There’s just too much of a risk that my skin will hate it and my face’s way of punishing me is breaking out.  I did try this for the sake of the blog but did not like it at all.  It smelled bad.  Like dirt.  Plus I had to wash my face twice to even get all my makeup off. 

http://nourishorganic.com/products/moisturizing-face-cleanser

Skyn Iceland Glacial Cleansing Cloths; Full Size $15, trial size $5 – I don’t normally use face cleansing cloths.  I always feel like I have to wash my face after I use them anyway, so I don’t really get the point.  But I’ll save these for when I’m travelling.  I could see them coming in handy in the airport! 

http://www.skyniceland.com/product-36-glacial-cleansing-cloths

Starlooks Lip Gloss in Guilty Pleasure; full size $12, trial size $6? – I really didn't like this lip gloss at all.  It was sticky and it went on really goopy so even when I tried to blend it in, I could see streaks on my lips.  If this is what all their lip-glosses are like, I definitely warn you to stay away! 

http://starlooks.com/collections/lips/products/lip-gloss

The total value of the items in my bag this month is $34.85.  It’s not as high as it usually is, but not bad for the $10 I spent!  Although most of the products were a complete dud for me, the cute bag definitely redeemed it!

If you’re interested in trying Ipsy for $10 a month, here’s my referral link! http://www.ipsy.com/r/6b49?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general

I've heard rumors that the holiday bags (November and December) are usually pretty awesome so it may be a great time to give it a shot!!  If you don’t like some of what you end up with, I’m sure they’d make great stocking stuffers and you can still cancel anytime!

Thanks for reading!!

~Sarah

Thank You L'Oreal!

So we all know my obsession with trying new makeup products.  I recently signed up to be a product tester for L’Oreal!  How cool is that?!  I wasn’t really sure if I would ever get selected to test anything, but I thought I might as well try!

Every couple weeks they post a new questionnaire on their website.  If your answers fit into the criteria for the testers they’re looking for then they ask you if you would like to test a certain product.  I got selected at the beginning of September and I got the product in the mail a couple of days later.   They asked me to use the tester for a week and fill out a survey after my first application and another longer survey after the week was up.  It was super easy and really fun!

This blog is not to talk about the product that I tested, but what they sent me as a “Thank-You” for participating!  I really didn’t expect to get anything other than the rest of the full size product that they sent me to test.  But last week I came home to a package with two make-up items in it!  What a wonderful surprise!

The first item was the Studio Secrets Professional One Sweep Eye Shadow in the color Natural for brown eyes.  This eye shadow has 3 different color blocks in one pot.  It comes with an applicator sponge that matches up to the shape of the eye shadow so you can sweep it once and be done.  I’ve used this several times now and I really like it!  These eye shadows usually sell for $9.95.  I don’t know that it’s worth that, but if you ever see them on sale somewhere I would definitely recommend trying it out!  http://www.lorealparisusa.com/en/Products/Makeup/Eyes/Eyeshadow/Studio-Secrets-Professional-The-One-Sweep.aspx?shade=Natural-Blue-Eyes

I am really excited about the second item that I got!  It was the Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner in blackest black.  I’d never tried gel eyeliner before because I thought applying eyeliner with a brush would be too difficult, but I absolutely love this!  I’ve tried liquid liner before, but this is so much better!  You can make the lines as thin or thick as you want and it gives you a super clean line.  I’ve been using this everyday and will definitely buy more when I run out!  It’s $9.99, but Ulta often has their products buy one get one 50% off and with one of their $3.50 off coupons, I can get two for a little more than the normal price of one.  If you use gel eyeliner but haven’t tried this, or if you’ve never tried a gel eyeliner but are interested in trying one, I definitely recommend this one!  http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod1790211&categoryId=cat80042

So far I haven’t been selected for any more product trials, but I’m hoping that will change soon and I’ll have some more products to tell you about!

Thanks for reading!!

~Sarah

The Benefit of a Birthday

In my last blog, I talked about the Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette that I bought from Ulta for my birthday.  I also bought the Benefit Cosmetics Frisky Six makeup set as an additional gift to myself.  I like buying the trial sizes of more expensive products so I can use them and decide if it would be worth buying the full size.  Most of Benefit’s full size items are $20 and up, so I really don’t want to waste my money if I don’t like the product as much as I thought I would.

Ulta has several gift sets that include some of Benefit’s most popular items.  This set came with 6 minis of Benefit products that I had never tried before.

They're Real! Mascara; Full Size $23, mini $10 on Ulta – This mascara is supposed to give lashes the added oomph of false lashes.  Although I wouldn’t go as far as to say my lashes looked as thick as fake lashes, I did notice more volume and length than I get with my Maybelline Cat Eyes.  I also tried this as a second coat on top of my Benefit Bad Gal Lash Mascara which seemed to work really well.

Lollitint Mini; Full Size $30, mini $9.36 – This is a lip and cheek stain that has a purple-pinky tint.  I haven’t used it on my cheeks because I don’t know if I’ll be able to blend it evenly.  It takes a while to dry so I’m guessing it wouldn’t be difficult but I’ve just been too afraid to try.  I have tried it on my lips but the color isn’t that different from my normal lip color, so I don’t notice much of a difference.

Lollibalm Mini; Full Size $18, mini $1.80 – The most disappointing thing about this is how small the “mini” is.  The first time I used it I tried to twist it up and realized that it was already all the way twisted up, there was that little of it.  I’ve used this a couple times over my Lollitint but there is no way I would pay $18 for this when I can achieve the same look with Babylips for less than $5.

Sun Beam; Full Size $26, mini $7.54 – This is a liquid bronzer/highlighter with an application brush.  I use this on the top of my cheek bones as a highlighter.  I have to be honest that I really don’t notice that it makes a difference when I wear this.

Sugarbomb; Full Size $28, mini $10 – This powder really confused me.  I think that it’s a blush, but I’m not really sure about that.  It’s got rosey peach tones in it that work OK as a blush, but it’s still a little lighter than I normally go for blush.  It has a bit of a shimmery quality to it that I really like, and the sample size is pretty decent.

Ooh La Lift; Full Size $22, mini $7.04 – This is probably my favorite thing from this set.  It’s an under eye brightener and it works really well!  I just put a couple dots of this under each eye and rub it in.  I am not a morning person at all so this helps give the illusion that I’m wide awake!

The total value of the products I received was $45.74 and I paid $27 ($4.50/product).  I’m really glad that I bought this set and was able to try all of these products.  Half the fun of makeup is trying new things!  I think of all the products, I would be most likely to buy the Ooh La Lift in the full size!

I also got a free Benefit make-up bag and sample of the Porefessional with my purchase from Ulta.  The bag is really nice quality and I can always use more 

primer!

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

UD Naked 3 Palette

I have been looking forward to my birthday for the past six months for two reasons; 1) My cruise, and 2) it was my excuse to buy the Urban Decay Naked 3 palette.

For the most part I am not an impulse buyer on expensive things.  After I decide that I want something that is a little pricier than what I would usually buy, I try to give myself at least a few months before I buy it.  This is mainly to reduce my risk of buyer’s remorse.  I’ve found that if I wait a few months before buying something, I‘m sure that it is something that I really want and can justify spending the extra money.

I decided in March-ish that I wanted to buy the Urban Decay Naked 3 palette.  This palette is $54 which is definitely above my normal eye shadow budget.  I decided to wait until my birthday month rationalizing that this is one of the most acceptable excuses to splurge on myself. 

I’d also been saving my Ulta points and was planning to use them to get $8 off.  When I logged into my account I realized that I had received 300 bonus points to use in September!  Score!!  Thank you Ulta!!  This brought my discount up to $17.50 bringing the price down to $36.50!

I absolutely love this palette!  It has a mix of pinky/rose toned colors that suit me more than the brown neutrals of the previous two Naked palettes.  The color payoff is amazing and there are so many different looks you can wear with it!  I’ve done something different every day for the past week and still haven’t even used all of the colors yet.

I was also really excited because my palette came with 4 samples of Urban Decay eye shadow primer.  I was tempted to buy some when I ordered this but I’m glad I got the samples so I can decide how I like it and whether or not I want to buy the full size.

I also got another sample of the Urban Decay Perversion Mascara to add to my ridiculous collection of mascara.  Seriously, who needs 20 tubes of mascara?  This girl!

Thanks for Reading!!

 ~Sarah

September 2014 Ipsy

First of all I feel the need to apologize for not posting the past two weeks.  I went on a cruise with two of my best friends to Bermuda and we had so much fun!  (See adorable cruise selfie below!)

It was a much needed break from my normal day to day routine of accounting and watching Little People Big World and Dance Moms.  I would like to tell you that I will never slack on my blogging duties again, but I have the feeling that when my nieces come in from Japan for Christmas there may be a few more missed weeks.

Anyway, I came back to my wonderful job, a DVR full of reality TV, and two packages in the mail full of blogging material!  The first package, in that bright pink mailer, was instantly recognizable as my September Ipsy bag!

This month’s theme was Street Style which wouldn’t have been complete without an “edgy” metallic makeup bag complete with studs.  I was very pleased with what I got in my bag this month!  Only one non-makeup product and multiple full size items!

NYX Hot Singles Eye Shadow in Innocent; Full Size $4.50 – This eye shadow is great!  I wear a lot of brown and gold toned eye shadows so I will definitely use this!  I’ve never tried any eyeshadow by NYX before but was pleasantly surprised by the intensity of this!  I’m going to have to check out some of their other products next time I’m at Ulta! It’s definitely an affordable brand with lots of options.  http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/p-230-hot-singles-eye-shadow.aspx

Pacifica Natural Waterproof Eye Pencil in Fringe; Full Size $11/Deluxe Sample Size $4-ish? - Not gonna lie, I was disappointed by this product when I pulled it out of my bag.  I don’t use pencil eyeliners!!  But, for the sake of the blog and all of you who are dying to know how it is, I tried it and have to say that it’s one of the smoothest pencil liners I have ever tried if not THE smoothest!  A prime example of why I love Ipsy.  I never would have bought this on my own but since I got it in my bag I tried it and was actually very happy with it! http://www.pacificabeauty.com/makeup/eyes/natural-waterproof-eye-pencil

Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair!; Full Size $26/Deluxe Sample $4.95 - This hair mask is supposed to help strengthen hair and protect against color and heat damage.  I don’t color my hair but I blow dry and straighten so I thought this would be a good product for me.  The main thing that I noticed after using this is how static-y it made my hair.  I’m going to keep using it a while longer to see if maybe it was just a fluke but if not, ain’t nobody got time for static-y hair!  So far I definitely don’t think it’s worth it to pay the price for the full size! https://www.briogeohair.com/product/dont-despair-repair/

HIKARI Lipstick in Cabernet; Full Size $13 – I never heard of this brand before receiving this lipstick and still don’t know how I feel about it.  When I first opened it, I thought the color would be really bright, but it’s definitely more of a plum or wine color (as the name Cabernet may suggest).  The only thing that I don’t like about this lipstick is that it has that waxy plastic smell of old lipstick and I just opened it.  In the future, I will definitely save my 7 bucks and buy a Maybelline or Rimmel that I know won’t smell like old crayons. http://www.hikaricosmetics.com/shop/lipstick/

Crown Deluxe Infinity Shadow/Crease Duet $6.99 – I was really excited to get this eye shadow brush!  I didn’t have a crease brush but have been meaning to get one so now I don’t have to!  The bristles are super soft and it’s almost like I got two items since there’s a brush on each end!  http://crownbrush.us/deluxe-infinity-shadowcrease-duet-p-904.html?zenid=1pd2h1t51cpc6i9qm39eicm514

I paid $10 for all of this with a retail value of $33.44!  If you’re interested in trying Ipsy, you can use my referral link to get started! http://www.ipsy.com/r/6b49?sid=ipsypoints&cid=general Who wouldn’t love getting a fun pink package each month full of beauty products!?

Check back next week to see what was in the other package!  You won’t be disappointed! 

*Spoiler Alert* It was from Ulta!!

Thanks for reading!!

~Sarah

What’s the Bzz About?

A couple months ago I signed up for BzzAgent after reading about it online.  This is another website that sends you products to try, review, and spread the word about. 

I received three foil packet sets of Dial Acne Control Body Wash and Face Wash.  Each set came with one pack of each and a $1 off coupon.  I also received 4 additional $1 off coupons to share.  I don’t really have issues with my skin on a regular basis, but who doesn’t like to try new things!

I’ve been using both of these products for a little over a week now and thought I’d tell you what I think so far. 

The product promotes visibly clearer skin in 3 days.  While I can’t say that I noticed a difference in 3 days, I can definitely notice a difference now after almost 2 weeks.  When I started using this at first it seemed like my face didn’t like it at all.  My skin had been relatively clear then all of a sudden I had several blemishes.  I continued using it to see if maybe it was just a matter of my skin getting used to it, and I’m so glad that I did.  The blemishes have mostly cleared up now and my skin looks clearer than it has in quite a while. 

I think I mentioned before that I usually just wash my face with dove soap then I use Noxema face pads at night.  But I have to say, if my skin continues to look like this while I’m using this face wash, I may have to add it to my routine!

I’ve always had little bumps on my arms so I started using the body wash hoping it would clear them up.  I have definitely noticed a difference in the appearance and smoothness of my arms so I will definitely purchase the full size of this when I run out of the samples.

Overall I am very happy with both of these products and I’m so glad that I got to try them for free through BzzAgent!  I can’t wait to see what they send me next!

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

What's the Benefit?

Each month, Ipsy gives discount codes for the brands they feature in their bags.  In July, one of the codes was for a free beauty trio with any online purchase from Benefit.  This set included sample sizes of High Beam, BADgal Lash Mascara, and the Refined Finish Facial Polish.  This set normally sells for $10 and includes a plastic makeup bag.  http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/hello-gorgeous

I haven’t tried a lot from Benefit but all I hear are great things so I was really interested in getting this set.  The great thing was that I didn’t have to buy anything else from the website!  I was able to get the set for free just by paying the shipping price of $5.95!  Here’s a quick review of what I thought of all of the products.

Refined Finish Facial Polish; deluxe mini $6?, full size $23 – This is a facial scrub that is meant to brighten your complexion and minimize the appearance of pores.  I can’t say that I really noticed either of these results, but it did leave my face very soft.  I think I need to try it out for a few more days before I can give you an accurate review. http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/refined-finish-facial-polish

High Beam; deluxe mini $8.00, full size $26 – This is liquid highlighter.  I used it under my eyes and I definitely think it works!  It’s very similar to the highlighter I got in my August Ipsy bag so I’ve been alternating between the two.  The only bad thing about this is the packaging.  The makeup itself is not watery at all but the applicator is a little brush so I don’t think I’ll be able to use/get to all of the product in the tube. http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/search?q=high+beam

BADgal Lash Mascara; deluxe mini $10.00, full size $19 – I was very happy with this mascara.  It doesn’t clump easily and gives a lot of volume.  I wish it lengthened a little more, but I’ve been using it as a primer for my regular mascara which seems to be working really well! http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/search?q=badgal+lash+mascara

The normal price of Benefit’s deluxe samples is usually anywhere from $6 to $10.  If you’re looking for a specific one, but can’t find it on the product page try searching for it by the name of the product.  They’re not always listed in the same category with the rest of the makeup.

I’m sure you can do the math and realize that spending $5.95 for the deluxe samples of these 3 products was a great deal.  Trying these for less than $2 a piece is much better than paying the full price (or even the normal price of the deluxe sample) and realizing that it wasn’t for me! 

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

August 2014 Ipsy Bag

August’s Ipsy bag was nowhere near as exciting as I hoped it would be.  Everything I got I will use, but I probably would have only selected 1 of the 5 myself.  This month’s theme is “Beauty Schooled”.  It came in a white cylindrical bag with orange polka dots and trim.  I really like the bag, but because of the material and the fact that they had to cram it in to my pretty pink mailer, it has really bad crinkled creases in it that I’m not sure will come out!  If not it’s definitely not the end of the world, I’m more interested in what’s inside it anyway!  This month I got 5 items, only 1 of which was full size.

Manna Cosmetics Sheer Glo; Full Size $29.00, Sample Size $7.83 – I haven’t decided whether I actually like this yet or not.  It’s a liquid illuminator so I’ve been wearing it under my eyes to brighten them up.  It’s a very runny formula but I do think that it does a good job.  I just don’t know that I really need a product like this so I probably won’t buy the full size any time soon.  http://www.mannakadarcosmetics.com/manna-sheer-glow.html

Absolute New York You’re the Balm in grape; Full Size $2.99 – This lip balm is a light purple color with little specks of glitter throughout.  It looks nice on lips but I just hate lip balms that you have to dip your finger into.  Am I the only one that thinks this is completely unsanitary?? This was also my only full size product at a whopping retail price of $2.99! http://www.nicka.com/navigation-menu/lip/duo-lip-balm

GlamGlow Youthmud Tinglexfoliate Treatment; Full Size $69.00, Sample Size $20.53 – I don’t really use face masks in my skin routine, but if I get one I will definitely use it!  As I started to apply this I noticed a weird black chunk in what I was spreading onto my face.  At first I thought it was a piece of plastic from the tube, but after further investigation, I realized it was supposed to be like that.  I went ahead and finished the application, complete with the chunks of who knows what, and let it dry for about 10 minutes while I watched Bachelor in Paradise. (Side note, I love everything Bachelor so this show is quite wonderful.)  Anyway, after I took off the mask I did notice that my skin felt very soft and smooth.  I was definitely happy with this product, but let’s be real, $69 for less than 2 ounces of anything is a little out of my comfort zone.  http://www.glamglowmud.com/youth-mud.html

Lord & Berry Silk Kajal Eye Pencil; Full Size $16.00, Sample Size $4.00? – I was really disappointed when I pulled this out of my bag.  First of all, it’s teeny tiny.  Second, I don’t like pencil eyeliner.  They never seem to go on smoothly and I know this is stupid, but I don’t like having to sharpen them.  It’s so much easier to just get the kind that twists up!  I decided to go ahead and try it for the good of the blog.  I have to admit that it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.  It went on a lot smoother than I anticipated, although it’s still not as good as the twisty kind.  I’ll definitely keep using the sample, but I think I’ll stick with my $1 Jordana Quickliner. http://shop.lordandberry.com/usa/silk-kajal.html

Perversion Mascara; Full Size $22.00, Sample Size $5.50 – This was my favorite item this month!  I knew from the Facebook spoilers that I would either get a purple Urban Decay eyeliner or this mascara, so I was relieved when I got this!  I can’t say that I’ve ever tried it, but I have a hunch that I’m just not the purple eyeliner type.  Anyway, this mascara is great!  It lengthens and volumizes and it isn’t clumpy.  The formula goes on very smoothly.  The only bad thing is the neck of the tube is really small and the brush is pretty thick, so the brush gets a little wonky when you pull it out to apply.  Despite the brush issues I think this mascara is great!  http://www.urbandecay.com/perversion-by-urban-decay/457.html#start=1&cgid=1_501

Even though I was initially really disappointed in this bag, it turned out to have some good stuff in it!  I will definitely use everything although I may not purchase most of them in the future.  The total value of the items in my bag this month is $40.85.  Half of that value comes from the mud mask alone!  If you’re not an Ipsy subscriber yet, you should definitely check it out!  If you are the least bit curious you should try it for a month or so and see how you like it.  You can cancel at any time and by looking at the bag value above and from all my other Ipsy posts you can tell that you will definitely get your money’s worth!  Here’s my referral link if you want to give it a shot!  http://www.ipsy.com/r/6b49

Thanks for Reading!!

~Sarah

June PINCHme Box

A couple months ago I signed up for PINCHme.com.  PINCHme is a website that brands use to test their new products.   Once a month PINCHme releases a list of products available for consumers to test and review.  You choose the products that interest you and PINCHme will send them at no charge.  The more you review the more products you will be able to choose from.  I was able to get a couple things in the month of June since it was my first time. 

Sinfulcolors Nail Polish in the color Ablaze – I was able to choose between 4 different colors from this brand.  I’ve never tried a Sinfulcolors nail polish before but I loved this color and was excited to try it.  The formula was a little watery and it didn’t last as long as OPI or Essie, but overall I was very happy with it.  I did two coats and put a glitter polish on my ring finger as an accent.  After trying this I’m definitely more likely to buy Sinfulcolors in the future.  If you’re looking for a specific shade but don’t want to invest in a whole bottle of a more expensive brand it’s definitely a great value at $1.99 a bottle! 

Skinnygirl Tasty Nutrition Bar, Dark Chocolate Pretzel – I also had the choice between a couple flavors of these bars and was very happy with my choice!  This was so yummy!  The bars are small, but very filling.  They’re also only 160 Calories.  They sell them at Target $5.99 for 5 which is a little more than what I would normally be willing to pay.  However, these would be great to have while travelling or on the go.  If I ever see these on sale I will definitely buy!

This is the only PINCHme box that I’ve gotten so far but I’m looking forward to getting another box in August.  I love trying new things, so these websites that offer items like this for the price of a survey are the greatest!

Thanks for reading!!

~Sarah