Beauty By Kristin Renee

Happy October my cyber friends!

I know it's been October for a couple weeks now but it has reached peak Autumn aesthetic here in Upstate New York!

Anyway... welcome back to my little nugget of the internet. Today I bring to you a battle between two micellar waters. In the blue corner, the cult favorite Bioderma Sensibio H2O. In the red corner, the new comer (relatively new to the U.S.) Garnier Micellar Water (option 2). Bioderma has been around for a while and could be considered and more "high end" micellar water. Garnier's micellar water debuted in the states in the fall of 2015. It was available in the UK prior to that (from where I purchased my Garnier). Which one will reign supreme?

To test these products out, I did my makeup as usual and at the end of the day I took the makeup on one half of my face off using Bioderma and the makeup on the other half of my face off using Garnier.

One of the main reasons I enjoy Bioderma is I was able to get a bottle with a pump. It was limited edition and they supposedly only come out with them a couple times per year. While the pump is a plus, it has little to no bearing on the product itself.

This product takes off makeup phenomenally. It got the vase majority of my mascara off - which is mainly what I judge any makeup remover on since it's such a pain to get off. Once my skin dried, it didn't feel as though there was any product on my skin. My BIGGEST annoyance with makeup removers is when they leave your skin oily. Back in the day, a lot of eye makeup removers were very oily on my eyes and then it would mess up my vision when it got in my eye and it would make my eyes water. Moral of the story, it was a hot mess. This product did not make my eyes feel any type of way. It wasn't greasy or oily or stinging or anything. Major points to Bioderma for this. Overall, I LOVE this micellar water. It is a phenomenal product. It is $16.90 for 500 mL (16.7 oz) on BeautyLish, so it isn't super pricey, but it is more expensive than Garnier. It'll cost you about $1.01 per ounce.

Similarly to Bioderma, Garnier's Micellar Water does take off makeup well; however, it's not as noticeable that it is taking the makeup off which implies it takes a little more work to remove the makeup. I did notice that there was some mascara residue on my lashes - more so than with the Bioderma. When the Garnier Micellar Water dried down on my skin, it did leave a slightly tacky residue. There was no oil or greasy feeling on my skin though which is a plus. The packaging on this is slightly underwhelming in comparison to the Bioderma. I've noticed with this kind of cap, rather that the pump, I tend to use more product. The site I purchased this on (FeelUnique.com) lists this for $4.62 for 400 mL (13.5 oz), while at Ulta this retails for $8.99 per mL. So depending on where you purchase, you're paying anywhere from $0.34 to $0.67 per ounce.

Overall, both products get the job done. I lean more towards the Bioderma. This is because it takes off my mascara better, leaves absolutely no residue, and has a pump - the pump causes me to use less product and therefore go longer without repurchasing. If you're on a budget, definitely go for the Garnier Micellar Water as it is comparable Bioderma. And hey, you never know, you might just prefer Garnier to Bioderma and completely disagree with me!

As always, if there are any products or topics you'd like to see discussed, let a girl know!

Until next time...

XOXO

- K

Welcome back to this space!

Today I bring to you a review of the NEW Master Palette by Mario from Anastasia Beverly Hills. As of 7pm est time on October 9, 2016, the palette is still available on Ulta.com and Sephora.com. The palette did sell out on the Anastasia Beverly Hills website and they said they WILL NOT be restocking as it is limited edition (which I don't know why because it's more beautiful than the Modern Renaissance palette - but that's just my opinion).

Let me tell you the struggle bus I road to get this palette. I should have just held off because it would have caused less stress. I was so nervous that it would sell out and I wouldn't be able to get this little nugget of perfection.

On September 28th, I got home from work and furiously checked every Anastasia Beverly Hills page and hashtag relating to this palette. I could find ZERO information on the time of the release. Of course, this was strategic by Anastasia Beverly Hill to try and prevent their website from crashing. And even though I knew that since I lived on the east coast and the palette wouldn't go live on their website at midnight on the 29th, I stayed up past midnight. Just past midnight I called it a night and decided to go to bed (with an alarm set for 2:55am - that would be 5 minutes before midnight on the 29th on the west coast).

In the middle of the night, I woke up. I had slept through my alarm and when I checked my clock through sleep heavy eyes, it was a few minutes after 4am. I thought just for giggles I'll scroll through Instagram. Several Instagram accounts I follow had posted that the palette was live - it went live at 4am est and 1am pst. I never shot out of bed so quickly in my life. I grabbed my laptop and tried to get on the website. The page wouldn't load and in my half asleep state it took me a few minutes to figure out that the site had crashed. Any normal person would go to bed and try again the next day. Nope. Not me. I spent the next hour with four tabs open in my internet browser just to purchase this palette. Just after 5am I had secured my palette. I received my confirmation email that day and figured it would ship by the weekend.

Monday October 3rd rolled around and I still had not received a shipping email. I thought this may be because the launch was so huge - a slight delay that most companies would address. Anastasia Beverly Hills was silent. I scrolled through several Master Palette by Mario posts on Instagram and saw several comments that echoed my own thoughts along with several alarming comments. Various customers who had purchased the palette and received a confirmation email had had their orders mysteriously cancelled. Needless to say this worried me. I contacted Anastasia Beverly Hills regarding my delayed shipment (I only just received a reply after my palette finally got delivered). That night, just before midnight, I received a shipping confirmation and all my order cancellation worries were vanquished. My palette was delivered a few days later that same week.

Let me tell you, this palette is even more beautiful in person. I love that this palette has some warm tones and cool tones. This palette is so much more accessible for every day looks - more so than the Modern Renaissance Palette (of course I'm not one for red-ish eye shadows). These shadows wear so beautifully. They blend impeccably. I did my eye shadow in the mid morning and it had not budged or smudged 12 hours later (without an eye shadow primer).

The eye shadow look I chose was one that I saw on a video a YouTuber I follow had posted. Jamie Paige posted her September Favorites video last week and when I saw the eye look she did with the Master Palette by Mario, I just knew I had to recreate it.

To create this look I followed Jamie's video (go check it out if you prefer watching an eye shadow tutorial). First I used the shade ISABEL as a transition color in my crease and upper crease with a fluffy blending brush. Then I took VIOLETTA into my crease with a more precise blending brush to deepen the crease. I then took BROOKLYN all over my lid with a flat shade-er brush. Then I sprayed MAC's Fix Plus on a clean flat shade-er brush to intensify 5TH AVE and placed it in the center of my lid and blended out the edges with my finger. Next, I took HOLLYWOOD and placed it on my inner corner and brow bone. Finally, I took BROOKLYN on a definer brush on my lower lash line and smudged it out with a bit of ISABEL on a pencil brush.

I know this sounds like a lot of steps but it is actually super quick and everything blends so easily that anyone could do it (I'm living proof of that sentiment). I cannot wait to try out more looks with this palette, especially for fall! If there are any other products you'd like me to try out, leave a comment below! Until next time...

XOXO

- K

Long time, no talk.

I'm sorry I have been MIA on here for a few months. Summer was crazy with work and everything, so I had to put some personal projects to the side. But with the start of the new month (and my all time favorite season), I thought I'd get back to doing the things I love.

So welcome to my review of the NEW Lorac Mega PRO 3 Palette!

Oh god, this palette. I am a sucker for packaging. So this palette with the rose gold lettering is beyond aesthetically pleasing. When I opened the box and saw the outside, I knew the array of shadows inside would be just as glorious - and let me tell you, I was right.

I love the neutral shades in the palette with a few deeper shades and the occasional pop of color such as pomegranate. With fall being my favorite season, the names of the shadows made me want to buy the palette even more (I told you, I'm a sucker for packaging). I mean come on: Brown Sugar, Cider, Bark, Walnut, Pecan, Hickory, Sequoia? YAS.

I had never purchased any products by Lorac before so I wasn't really sure what to expect. I've heard nothing but good things about their shadows so I figured this limited edition palette was the perfect first purchase. I am a platinum member at Ulta so I was able to grab this before it officially went on sale.

When I first reached for this palette, I was immediately attracted to the plum tones - which happens to make for the perfect fall eye look.

For this look, I started out by taking some of the shade TAN throughout my crease and a bit higher as a transition shade. Then I deepened the crease by adding VIOLET GRAY. I then placed ROSE QUARTZ all over my lid. The look felt a bit incomplete so I deepened my outer v with EGGPLANT. I also took EGGPLANT on the outer half of my lash line and used PECAN on the inner half. Add SNOW to the inner corner of your eye to brighten it, top it off with mascara and you are done!

I added a berry toned lip to tie the look together and I felt thoroughly prepared for Autumn in a comfy sweater!

I have to say I am in love with Lorac's Mega PRO 3 Palette. The colors are perfect for Autumn and the quality is amazing. The shadows blend incredibly well and I appreciate the layout of the palette as well; the top two rows are mattes and the bottom two rows are shimmers. If this is a color palette that is right up you alley, snag it before it's gone. If not, check out any of the other Lorac palettes - you can't go wrong with their formulation.

If there are any products or looks you'd like me to try out, just let me know!

Until next time...

XOXO

- K

Welcome back to my little corner of the interweb!

I'm really bad with introductions - small talk-ish conversations are just horrible. So, without further ado, lets get into the new release from Becca Cosmetics and Jaclyn Hill!

I've been watching Jaclyn Hill's videos for a while now, and champagne pop is one of my all time favorite highlighters (remind to write a post on all of my favorites). So when she was hinting at something being in the works, I was dying to find out what. Around the beginning of May, Jaclyn showed us the most beautiful face palette ever - enter the Champagne Collection Face Palette (which is sadly limited edition). It was revealed that this palette would be released on May 26, 2016. It's still not May 26th and I don't know how I would have waited that long.

On May 17th, the Champagne Collection launch party was all over the internet. So many social beauty gurus were flying to NYC for this coveted event. This day began as any other; I went to work, I came home, I started catching up on a show I was watching. I had decided to pick up my phone and check Instagram. Oh what a great decision that was (not for my wallet though). Becca Cosmetics has posted an image of the palette announcing that if you went on the Sephora mobile app and searched #champagneglow, you would get access to a limited supply of these palettes. Needless to say I lost my sh*t - I have zero chill. Of course I had to order one. But alas, It was not that easy.

I had searched every possible variation of #champagneglow I could think of and still nothing. Based on the comments on Becca's Instagram picture, it seemed as though this was an issue for Android users (yet another reason I loathe Android and cannot wait to switch back to an iPhone). So I looked to twitter to see if I could find out anything else - while simultaneously downloading the Sephora app on my iPad (Spoiler: that app didn't work either). When I got to Becca's twitter, all of the replies to people who were having the same issue as me were told to try calling Sephora's customer service line. I bet you can guess where this story goes next.

Yup, I called Sephora. When I got to a representative to order the palette, I was greeted with attitude. I was told I had to search the code word (I had already done that). I was then told to put that code word into the promo section of checkout (that didn't work either). Finally the representative took my order over the phone (her attitude had dissipated by this point as well - which resulted in me not contacting Sephora about the matter). And so it was ordered! I was ecstatic! I didn't bat an eye at the price tag of $52 because I knew this was limited edition and it has been on my wishlist for a hot second. It arrived in the mail three days later and it was the best way to end my work week.

The Champagne Collection Face Palette includes Champagne Pop (0.19 oz), Prosecco Pop (0.19 oz), Rosé Spritz (0.10 oz), Amaretto (0.12 oz), and Pamplemousse (0.12 oz).

I have to say, out of the blushes, I am most excited for Rosé Spritz. I usually go for matte blushers, but I do love a good rose gold. It reminds me of Orgasm blush by Nars and Rose Gold blusher by Sleek Makeup (Disclaimer: I am not saying these are dupes). The pigmentation on both highlights and the three blushers is insanely good.

The packaging comes with the usual plastic insert - which has to be the cutest one I've ever seen. But fear not, you can toss it - the names are also on the back of the packaging so you never have to worry about forgetting.

I am incredibly impressed with this palette. It will definitely be my go to for my makeup looks for the foreseeable future. If you weren't able to get your hands on this during the surprise limited launch, it's online on May 26th and in stores June 16th. You can also check out the rest of the new releases for the Champagne Collection here. I cannot wait to glow through the summer months (and let's be honest - all year round).

Are you planning on purchasing one of the new products? Which one are you most excited for?

XOXO
- K

Hello lovelies! Welcome back to my little corner of the internet.

This weekend I ventured back to my college town to visit my friend and go to the Albany Tulip Festival.

When you go to university in Albany, there are several events that are staples for college students to go to, one of them being this festival.

The Albany Tulip Festival is by far my favorite event the city of Albany puts on every year. There's live music, food, drinks, shopping, and hanging out with friends. I mean, what more could you ask for on a gorgeous spring day? Granted, it's not the same as when I actually was in college and my friends weren't spread across the continental United States, but I still love going every year.

By now some of you may be asking "What exactly is Tulip Fest?" and "What does food and music have to do with tulips?" Well I'm glad you asked. Every year, hundreds of thousands of tulips (I'm not joking; there's over 140,000 tulips) bloom in Washington Park in Albany, NY. The Albany website states it's an event "celebrating Albany's rich, Dutch heritage". It's a completely free event and is open to the public (obviously products from vendors cost money). It's usually Mother's Day weekend every year. Keep your eye out for the dates of next year's event!

What's one of your favorite hometown (or college town) events?

XOXO

- K

P.S. Now sit back and enjoy some tulips!

Hello all, and welcome to my April favorites!

This month I've been going out more and being more social (because I am massively anti-social). It was also the Sephora VIB sale and I've just seemed to purchase more products this month.

Nivea Men Post Shave Balm - I've had this for a few months now but I've really been using it this month. I love this product as it practically glues my makeup to my face (not literally though). My makeup throughout the day doesn't move or get patchy, and for $5 you can't ask for more. (Side note: it also has a man scent - which is quite nice when you're single AF hahaha)

Too Faced Sweethearts Bronzer in Sweet Tea - I have never really been one for bronzer. I'm all about contour but bronzers tend to scare me. I'm always afraid I will look like an oompa loompa. I figured this shade was light enough that it would warm up my ghastly skin tone without turning me orange - and I was right! I have been reaching for this product more than any of my contour specific products. There is some shimmer in it but when I apply it I don't notice it at all.

Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Inner Rim Liner in Nude - I saw this product used in a youtube video so I thought I would try it out. I've never been one for black liner on my water line. It makes my eyes look pretty small. Although I have used black liner a couple times for nights out. This was right up my alley. I found that white liner was too start with my eye looks. This brightens and opens up my eyes without it looking as noticeable as a white liner.

Tarte Double Duty Beauty The Lip Sculptor Double Ended Lipstick & Gloss in Basic - I have a love hate relationship with this product, and you can probably guess why. If you guessed that I only liked one of the ends of this product, you guessed right! I love the lipstick. It is very hydrating and the color is my perfect nude. My only gripe with the lipstick is that it doesn't last a long time. I'm not one to reapply during the day so the good part about it wearing off is that it doesn't wear off patchy. I'll just notice it's gone at some point after looking in the mirror. I do not like the gloss however. I'm not one for gloss. I don't think glossy lip products look good on me. If I put it on over the lipstick (because I did try), it takes off the lipstick and then just looks patchy. Maybe I don't know how to wear gloss but it just doesn't work for me.

Japonesque Color Velvet Touch Blush in Shade 2 - When I first saw this product, I had my doubts. But this blush was recommended in one of MannyMUA's videos, so I told myself to try it. And let me tell you, I am so glad I did. I've only ever used pink toned blushes, which is why I was hesitant with this one. I wasn't even sure if this would show up on my skin. But once I applied it - OH MY GOD. It is the blush I reach for all the time. I have barely touched any of my other blushes since I've purchased it. It gives the perfect flush to the cheeks and you don't have to worry about looking like a clown because it's such a nude toned color.

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft & Gentle - Now this is probably no surprise to anyone and in fact you're probably saying "ummm tell us something we don't know." I know I'm late to the band wagon but I just started venturing into MAC products. I am in love with this highlight quite frankly. Although I am practically in love with every highlight (it may be my obsession). This is my everyday highlight. I don't have to worry about going overboard. But at the same time, I can build this up for a killer highlight on a night out. Perfection, just perfection.

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium - I saw Jaclyn Hill using MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural, so I bought MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural. I'm usually one that sticks to transluscent powders but I thought I would trust in the beauty knowledge of a makeup artist and give it a shot. And now I don't use anything else. I was afraid it would make my skin look cake-y because it has color to it, but it doesn't. It makes my skin look flawless. (PS - 10 pts to gryffindor if you caught the mean girls reference)

MAC Eye Shadow in Nylon - Yet another Jaclyn Hill recommendation. Jaclyn knows what she's talking about. This is the best inner corner highlight and brow bone highlight. None of the other shadows or even actual highlights I have compare. The end.

So there you have it - the products I've been loving through the month of April! What have you been loving over the past month?

XOXO

- K

Hello lovelies!

Over the past few weeks I went into Sherlock mode trying to get my hands on this palette (and I feel like Lemony Snicket from the title of this post #alltheliteraryreferences). So let me take you back to the beginning of my Sweet Peach obsession.

Once upon a time, I was wasting time on Pinterest. I came across an image of this palette with a few other product (the PB&J Palette included). I thought this was a joke - well maybe not a joke, but that someone created this image for wishful thinking that Too Faced would see their ideas and want to make them. Low and behold, it was announced that these products were in fact being released.

I was determined to obtain the Sweet Peach Palette. So I bided my time. It was announced that the palette would be on sale on the Too Faced website - later to be released on Sephora and Ulta websites and then in stores. The interwebs went nuts. The palette sold out on Too Faced's website. After a second restock, it sold out again. Too Faced then announced that it would not be restocking. I did not attempt to purchase the palette on the brand's website, rather I decided to wait until it was available in stores.

At some point the palette went on sale on Ulta's website (I wasn't paying much attention at the time and missed it). It was sold out. But it was listed as being released in stores on April 7th. In the meantime, the palette was on Sephora's website but you could not purchase it - it was listed as being available in stores on April 15th.

After work on April 7th, I went to my local Ulta. I was told that they never received the palettes on that shipment that day (I now wonder if they received them prior and sold them before they were supposed to). I then made a trek out to a different Ulta - they were sold out. I checked the Sephora in that city - they had sold out (even though the palette should not have been on sale for four more days). I checked my local Sephora - they were sold out. I put my name on the lists at my local Sephora and Ulta to be called when it came back in stock. I have yet to receive a call.

I checked my local Ulta once more. They told me they would be getting a shipment the next day, but they did not know what products were being restocked. So the next day I called - the girl only told me they didn't receive any after I told her my name was on the list and what my name was (I'm cynical enough to believe that the amount of palettes they restocked was only enough for some of the people above me on the list). At some point I had checked the Ulta website again - it was no where to be found. The listing for the product had been removed. The same thing happened a few days later on the Sephora website.

This weekend, I went to Connecticut with my mom - we were going to Ikea since there isn't one by me. There was nothing in the store I checked in Connecticut. On my way home I stopped in my college town to check there.

I walked into Sephora and straight to the Too Faced display. There wasn't even a palette on display. I found the closest associate I could find and asked if they had any available - mentally trying to compel her to say yes. The second she said they had one left I immediately asked for it. She said I could just ask someone at the till for it. I don't think I've ever traversed a 10 ft space so quickly.

As I got to the register and asked the cashier for the palette my heart dropped when he said he thought they were sold out (there were two directly behind him on the table in my line of vision). But alas I was able to purchase the Sweet Peach palette. It only took multiple phone calls, several trips to multiple stores, and a trip out of state.

This story begs the question: what lengths have you gone to, to obtain a product you want?

XOXO

- K

Hello all!

Welcome back to my blog! Today I thought, in honor of being on vacation with no plans to go anywhere, I'd talk about the top five places I want to visit! I want to travel the world - I hate the idea of being stuck in one place. But I thought I'd just talk about the five places I'm dying to visit most at present (ask me tomorrow and they may change).

5. London/United Kingdom

_kristinrenee_

London and the entire United Kingdom has long been my favorite place in the world. I don't know what it is but I am obsessed with all things British. When I was 20, I had the opportunity to live in London for 3 months. Let me tell you, it was the most difficult thing I've ever done - I was by myself. But it was the best 3 months of my life. If I could live in London, or anywhere in the United Kingdom for that matter, I would be content. I have already been here, but my love for this country has not diminished which is why it made it onto this list today.

4. Australia

Gap Year

I don't know what it is about Australia - maybe I just have a desire to travel to places that speak English (I do not have an affinity for learning languages). Australia has just always been in the back of my head as a place to visit. There are several items on my bucket list that I could cross off after visiting this country: Climb the Sydney Harbor Bidge, Bungee Jumping, scuba dive at the Great Barrier Reef (just to name a few).

3. South Africa

Truly Experiences

When I think of South Africa I think of nature and animals and complete and utter beauty. In my mind it is the stark opposite of America - a county of consumerism. I not saying that the picture in my head is 100% accurate by any means. But when I think of a place such as South Africa to travel to, I think of unplugging myself from my world that is so filled with technology (that is until I plug back in to post all the pictures - if I hypothetically went). I feel a sense of adventure when I think of this locale - more so than just the thought that traveling already incites.

2. Greece (Santorini)

Vault Blog Couture

I think the picture above says it all. The beauty and contrast between the white of the buildings and the blue of the sea is insurmountable. It could be the color scheme, but for me I think Greece would be the epitome of relaxation. I can just picture myself lounging and strolling along the streets of Greece and truly enjoying life - without going on an extreme adventure. I think here I could thoroughly enjoy doing nothing.

1. Thailand

Going Nomadic

BBC Good Food

Ahhh, my number one. The main reason for Thailand being top on my list of places I want to travel is mainly the elephants. Elephants are my favorite animals and there are elephant sanctuaries in Thailand. I would love to visit one and hang out with elephants. In doing research about Thailand, I was astounded by the sheer beauty of it. Everything is so bright and vibrant - a stark contrast to my life in Central New York (especially in the winter). Even just looking at these images, I do not have a care in the world.

So there you have it - my top five travel destinations. Most of these may not seem like they have an exact rhyme or reason, and they don't. I picked these locations purely because I want to travel to them. I want to visit them just to explore the world - and I don't think you should ever have to justify your travel decisions. Next year I want to plan a trip to one of these places. Next year: because this year is already shot to hell (the struggle of having to pick vacation time on a whim is December. PS have I mentioned the job part of adulthood is not fun). My only set back is that I do not have anyone to travel with, but I'll figure it out. Let me know in the comments what some of the places in the world are that you are dying to visit.

XOXO

- K

Hello lovelies.

I know this post is long over due, but I'm back at it!

I wanted to write this quick post this week before I get back to my usual makeup and beauty related topics.

I am back to posting regularly on Sundays again - starting today. This is my first post of April and certainly not my last.

I'm sorry I fell off the face of the planet for the month of March. Right after I published my last post, shit started to hit the fan (for lack of a better phrase). March has certainly been the most trying month of 2016 so far. I have had ups and downs in my personal life, as well as dealing with work. This month, my place of employment implemented mandatory overtime. So I was constantly working and frankly, just too physically and emotionally exhausted to do much of anything else.

Towards the end of the month events started improving. I was pulling myself out of my funk and working on better myself. This will continue for the foreseeable future. However, that's enough about my personal struggles - the important thing is that I am back to blogging weekly.

If there is one this that I have learned this month, it's that even when you are exhausted, and even when you don't have a job you love, and even when you are struggling you need to make time for the things you love to do. I love writing. I love writing on this blog. Yes, I needed some time off and to myself. But I also wasn't writing at all and that made me feel not like myself.

So, moral of the story - just stick to what you love - even if for the time being it's a hobby. There shouldn't be any other month long breaks. I was very proud of how often and regularly I was posting. I don't plan on disappointing myself like that again. Keep and eye on this space as my next post will be live next Sunday!

XOXO

- K

Hello lovelies! Welcome to my first ever February Favorites! I selected just a few items for my first favorites post as to prevent it from being exceptionally long. So without further ado, here are some things I have been loving through the month of February.

Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow

This product is amazing! It is so silky and I have never been able to get such a perfect contour and highlight from one product. For the past few months (like 6 months) I have been faithful to my Kat Von D Shade and Light Contour Palette. This month I decided to treat myself to this Charlotte Tilbury product, and I am so glad I did. The product is so finely milled and so pigmented. The sculpt shade is the perfect amount of warmth to add to my face without making me look or feel out of place in the winter months. The highlight powder provides the most perfect glow on my cheek bones. I am now in a fully committed relationship with this product. Bye bye, Kat.

Zoeva - Luxe Sheer Cheek

This brush, man. This is the softest brush I have ever felt on my skin. I am not exaggerating. It is so incredibly silky soft. It applies my contour impeccably well. I previously used the Real Techniques Sculpting Brush. As I said above, prior to my Charlotte Tilbury contour palette, I was using the Kat Von D palette. I don't know if it was the brush or the powders, but I will never use anything other than the Zoeva Luxe Sheer Cheek brush and the Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow palette.

Your Tea - Tiny Tea and Happy Tea

I have been raving about Tiny Tea for around two years now. I swear by this product. No, it does not make me lose weight. However, I feel like my body feels so much better and healthier when I drink it. Drinking this makes me want to eat healthy. And as a plus, there's no laxative ingredient. If you don't believe me, check out the ingredients yourself. As for Happy Tea - I bought this on a whim. It is a much milder flavor than the Tiny Tea; however, I do love it and while I haven't had the chance to use it regularly yet, I expect nothing but great things.

Young Living Essential Oils - Thieves Spray

I. LOVE. THIS. STUFF. One of the women I work with is really big into essential oils. She buys through the company Young Living, so through her I can get the wholesale price. I wasn't that much into it, but the second she sprayed this stuff, I was sold. IT. SMELLS. SO. GOOD. This combination of essential oils acts as a disinfectant. Since I work in a cubicle, in an office with hundreds of other people, I like to keep my desk as clean as possible (illness spreads like wildfire). This smells incredible and it makes me feel more comfortable at my desk than the standard disinfecting wipe. The strongest smells I'm able to detect are cloves and cinnamon.

Lukas Graham - 7 Years

I first heard this on the radio and ever since I have been obsessed. I don't know what it is about this song but I can't help but sing along whenever it plays. I am 90% sure that the day I first heard this, I ended up playing on repeat a solid 15 times. Music has been the most important part of my life for as long as I can remember. Discovering new music is my favorite activity of all time - this month, "7 Years" is my favorite song.

And there you have it - my first ever favorites/my favorites through the month of February. Let me know if you like these types of posts! Comment below what some of your favorites this month are.

XOXO

- K

Happy Sunday my digital peeps!

Today I thought I'd write more of a chatty post. So just for the heck of it I thought I'd examine my slight obsession to makeup.

The above picture is just some of my recent makeup purchases (including my monthly Ipsy bag).

My name is Kristin and I am a makeup addict. I think I have hit my rock bottom (cue the Hailee Steinfeld track). Let's take this back to the beginning.

I was never a particularly girly-girl. During high school I genuinely couldn't care less about makeup. I had my drugstore makeup in my target makeup case. All was well. Around 2013 is when everything took a turn. I started watching makeup YouTube videos. My resolve was strong. I didn't buy into the hype of high end makeup - I couldn't fathom how one could spend so much on makeup. It was the beginning of 2015 - January to be exact - that I caved. I asked for the Naked2 palette for my birthday. After that, I started going to Sephora but just for Soap and Glory products. I had my Naked2 palette and my Soap and Glory Sexy Mother Pucker Gloss Stick (which is technically a drugstore brand in the UK). The rest of my makeup was still my good ol' fashioned drugstore brands.

As the year progressed I kept looking into more name brands. I held out (probably because I was a broke college student). When I got my tax refund check in May, I took my booty to Ulta and bought a couple Tarte products. Once I started my "big girl" job, as I call it, all hope was lost. I finally had an income. I could buy what I wanted. Don't get me wrong, I still put money away in savings every paycheck. But the amount of makeup I have accumulated in the last year (maybe it's a better estimate to say 9 months) is disgusting, but I love it.

Now sometimes I ask myself - Kristin, why do you spend so much money on makeup that you don't even wear everyday? Yes, it is true that more often than not I do not wear makeup. If there's something I love more than makeup, it's sleep. My sleep is a valuable thing on work mornings. As far as my answer, I just do. I don't have a rhyme or reason. I just love makeup (My 13 year old self would be shocked to read that sentence right now).

I think the saddest part of my makeup obsession is that most of my makeup - including all of the makeup in the above picture - is stored in boxes. I order makeup and store it in the boxes it comes in. I will use them, but then back in the box they go. I just have no storage space for my makeup. There are several Ikea pieces (I know, typical) that I have my eye on. Sadly, the closest Ikea is about three and a half hours away. And I refuse to pay $350 dollars for shipping. I am planning a trip to Ikea, but that's in a couple of months. For now a box shall remain the home for my makeup.

If you find yourself in the same situation let me know, or if you have any storage suggestions!

XOXO

- K

Hello lovelies! I hope you all had a lovely Valentine's day. This week's post is the final post in my Battle of the Lip Fixes series. I enjoyed trying out different products each week and comparing them. So, without further ado - Battle of the Lip Fixes: The Results.

For the last four weeks, I have been trying out three different lip products. The first week was the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream, the second week was the Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil, and the third week was the Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask. You can read their respective reviews here, here, and here.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream - This "cream" is more of a gel (think of blistex) consistency. This product does have a scent; however, it is not particularly strong, nor is it particularly unpleasant. I love this product, and as an added bonus, it will last you a ridiculously long time. I don't think I've even made a dent in mine. During the week I was using this, I kept it right next to me on my desk at work and constantly reapplied it. I also used it at home. My lips did become more soft and the chapped spots did heal. I don't know what is in this product but it is magical. I did get sick at one point and put this on my nose as well (we all know how chapped noses can get when you're constantly blowing them). Overall, I think this product is a great investment. It is so versatile and is definitely going to be my go to winter lip product.

Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask - The Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask has a similar consistency as the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream if only a little more solid. It is still a gel - but it is not as soft as the other product. This also has a flavor - after all it is agave. It is just slightly sweet. Also unlike the other product, there is no scent. I don't know about you, but I would probably rather have a product that has a favor instead of a scent. This product works amazingly. My lips became incredibly soft - dare I say the softest they've ever been. This product is so thick, I would only use it in the morning when I got up and at night before I went to bed. The only downfall of this product was the fact that I didn't want to use it over the course of the day. Because I work in an environment that has such dry air, I constantly wanted to use another lip balm such as EOS. I feel like this may be best used as a summer product when the air isn't so drying. This will definitely be my summer lip balm and possibly my winter one as well (but only if I use another balm during the day).

Clarins Instant Light Comfort Lip Oil - Ahhhh Clarins, I had such high hopes for this product. Don't get me wrong it is a great product. I think this is amazing if you have done simplistic makeup for the day and need a slight tint, but also want to treat your lips. But I don't see this as being my go-to, constantly reached-for product. I'll use it up, but I don't know that I would repurchase. This product doesn't necessarily heal your lips so much as prevent them for being chapped. If you buy this, I would use it more as a preventative measure than a curative product.

All in all, I think the product I would be most likely to repurchase is the Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask (let me tell you I would have been wrong in my prediction at the beginning of this venture). I would also probably repurchase the Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. The only product I don't think I would repurchase would be the Clarins Instant Light Comfort Lip Oil. Although I do have two, so I don't think I will be hard pressed to make this decision anytime in the near future.

I had such a great time making this series for you guys. Let me know how you liked this and if there are any other products you like to see me review and compare!

XOXO

- K

Welcome back to this space! I just wanted to start off by saying thank you! I cannot believe how many views I have gotten in 2016 so far. I hope you continue to read and feel free to share with your friends!

Today is the third and final review in my Battle of the Lip Fixes series. This week, I tried out the Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask. I have a couple of sample sizes (.18 oz) that I received in Bite's Christmas set, as well as purchasing their 5 Night Fix for Lips. It does not look like either of these options are available on Sephora's website, but you may want to keep an eye out in the store. It also appears that Bite came out with two tinted Agave Lip Masks as well, so if you're one for tinted balms (or masks in this case) take a look at those on Sephora's website.

This mask is very thick - a little definitely goes a long way. You need just the smallest amount and smear it across your lips. There is a sweet flavor to the mask, but what else should I expect from an AGAVE mask. It is a nice flavor which is always a plus in my book (not that you should eat this product).

The Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask does have a nice texture. As I said, it is thick; however, it does not leave your lips with a sticky feeling. On the contrary, I enjoyed the feeling of this product on my lips. For the application for this product, because it is a mask and not like a chapstick that you can apply throughout the day, I applied this twice per day - once in the morning and once at night.

I just have one thing to say about this - my lips are so soft. I don't have any chapped skin or anything. My only qualm about this product is using it in the winter. I don't know about you, but the air in my workplace is very dry in the winter. Because of this, all week long I wanted to use a chapstick or lip balm during the day. It took all of my will power not to use another product with this. I think I will continue using this product but with another in cunjunction with it during the day. I think this would be the perfect product for the summer months when you're not super worried about chapped lips, but still want soft lips, and the air isn't as dry.

Next week will be the final post of my Battle of the Lip Fixes series. Next week will be an overview of all three products and which ones I would repurchase and if there are any I probably will not use again. Let me know if you enjoyed this series and if there are any products you'd like to see reviewed and put up against one another (i.e. face products, eye products, skin products, etc.). Keep an eye on this space for Battle of the Lip Fixes: The Results.

XOXO

- K

Welcome back! And welcome to the second installment of my Battle of the Lip Fixes series!

For this week's post, I tried out the Clarins Instant Light Comfort Lip Oil. I think I was most excited to try this product out.

The Clarins Instant Light Comfort Lip Oil comes in two scents - Raspberry (a sheer berry shade) and Honey (a golden shade). Now don't be fooled when I use the term shade. When I swatched them on my wrist, I could barely tell the difference as there is minimal color to the oil. I also used the term scent instead of flavor. The product itself does smell like raspberry and honey, respectively. I'm slightly obsessed with the raspberry one - it has become my go-to of the two products. There is no flavor though. It is simply an oil for your lips.

I was actually slightly nervous about the texture of the product. I'm not one for sticky glosses and lip products. If a product is overly sticky, I won't use it no matter how amazing the other aspects of the product are. The first time I applied this product, I was pleasantly surprised. It is not sticky at all. It is so smooth on your lips. It is truly an oil. Even if the product didn't do a thing, I would recommend this as a gloss - it makes your lips just the perfect amount of shiny. The slight tint to the product also causes me to favor the raspberry scent. It is almost a "your lips but better" product.

Now onto the actual performance. The Clarins Instant Light Comfort Lip Oil does just as the product description (courtesey of the Macy's website) states: "Clarins' newest treatment oil transforms lips from dry and damaged, to plump and luscious--while adding just a hint of colour." As previously stated, it does add just a hint of color. It did make my lips look slightly more plump (though it wouldn't be my sole reason for purchase), as well as hydrated. I am not sure that I would recommend this product to heal severely chapped lips, but I do reach for this as a more preventative product. If you use this, surely you can help prevent chapped lips.

If you can swing the price tag of $25 for this product, and you are looking for something to prevent instead of heal, I would go for this product. Sometimes I feel like a preteen again - I'm sure we all remember that age when we bought lip gloss to seem cool but we really just liked the scent/flavor. It reminds me of that part of my youth... or rather, my early youth.

Let me know if there are any specific products you would like to see in this series for review!

XOXO

- K

Hello Interwebians!

(wow, I don't think I've said that since one of my first posts)

Welcome to my new and improved blog!

I thought I would try out a new set up for a bit. Sometimes change just feels so good. Speaking of change, I'm hoping you like the influx of posts that the new year has brought in. I'm thoroughly enjoying writing my bum off. I am working on lots of posts and I've been keeping a running list of new ideas (which never happens!).

So I thought I'd just stop by and say HI!

I'll see you here on Sunday!

XOXO

- K

Every year, in the dead of winter, I find myself searching high and low for something to keep my lips soft and smooth. And every year, after just picking up any old lip product, I throw my hands up, give up on my search and resign myself to the fact that I will never have soft lips in the winter.

This year I decided to take my search seriously and find the best product for my lips. I hope this helps you find a product that you can love and reach for every day of the winter season. I decided to start my trials with the beloved Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream. Many individuals across the internet rave about this product.

This product is not marketed as a lip product, and one of its selling points is, in fact, its versatility. I have used this on my lips as well as my hands and any dry patches. But for the sake of this post, I will keep my thoughts strictly lip related.

I was extremely excited when my order finally came in the mail. I thought that with so many people raving about it, it had to work. My first instinct when I opened the packaging was to smell it. I don't know why but that is my first instinct with a lot of products I buy. The scent is something that you may need to get used to. It is not too strong, but it is noticeable. If you are not one for scented products I would recommend their fragrance free version (You can get it here). The scent does not create a flavor for this product. It is actually flavorless (If you are thinking "why would you mention a flavor?" Be honest, we all know we care about if a lip product tastes like anything). The product itself is more of a gel than a cream - think more of a Vaseline consistency. I actually quite liked this aspect. Prior to purchasing, I would wonder what it was like to put a lotion-like product on my lips.

Now on to the effectiveness of the Eight Hour Cream. I reapplied the product several times throughout the day - desperately needed as my office is as dry as the Sahara; I go through hand cream and lip products like no other. It made my lips feel protected and I like the feel of the product on my lips; it was not particularly sticky. It did protect my lips and it did seem to heal them. However, with this product I did notice that as the product wore off, it did leave my lips feeling dry. It did not make my lips chapped or feel chapped; they just felt dry - a minute but important distinction.

I do quite like carrying this product around in my handbag. I kept reaching for this product all week long. To hear my verdict on this product, keep an eye on this space. I will be reviewing several more lip products (each of which I try out for a week). Once the products are reviewed, I will make a post of my results on which product I would most likely reliably reach for. Let me know if there are any specific products you would like to see in this series for review!

XOXO

- K

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