Tag Archives: beauty

Sassy’ s Current Faves…

27 Aug

It’s been a while since I’ve kept you in the loop about what beauty and glamour products I have found that have worked their way into my list of current faves. I think I had become comfortable in my beauty routine and didn’t really find a need to look for anything different. Although there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, we do have to realize that the products in our vanity are constantly changing… and improving! Here are a few new discoveries that I am currently crushing on:

Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Eyeliner – I always have a liquid liner at hand, but to be honest I do find it a challenge to get my top lid just the way I like it. Which is thin and even. Which almost never happens. I’ve used precise brushes and gels, pens, pencils, you name it. If I could “come close” to a nice, smooth top line, I’d be thrilled. But that very seldom happens. The marketing for Maybelline’s newest liner is outstanding. It even captured my attention when it first came out. Long wear, deep black color, easy-to-hold pen. That was my main draw. (Pardon the pun.) It’s definitely easier to handle compared to other pens and the wear does last all day +. Plus it is super water resistant. No problems with sweat or tears either. I like the tight line I get and don’t think I’ll tire of this liner and its look any time soon. (Maybelline.com, $10.79)

Kiehl’s Powerful Strength Dark Circle Reducing Vitamin C Eye Serum – Who doesn’t want to keep their age hidden for just a little bit? Or a lot a bit? *Sassy raises hand* The first thing that started showing how old I am was my eyes. Fine lines? I could handle that with a good moisturizing eye cream. But what about those dark circles? Rumor has it that those are just shadows from what I call “potholes” that have developed under my bottom lids. I believe my dark circles may be from a couple of other things too. Those include fatigue, thinning skin around the eyes (with dark blood vessels becoming more visible), and even just general eye strain. All of these I can relate too. I’ve tried skin brighteners before, but most just feel like a light moisturizer or greasy oil. Kiehl’s Vitamin C Eye Serum is super concentrated and goes on smooth. After only five days of using it, the darkness was noticeably lighter. Using a small jade roller helped too. Just dot on under your eyes each night after your regular beauty routine and massage it in. Yes, it’s a tad pricey but a little goes a long way for a long time. (Sephora, $50)

Makeup Revolution x Coca Cola Makeup – I very seldom jump on board when a makeup company uses another brand or Influenster to jack up the hype of new line. What I do like is a brand that gives me good products in shades and formulas that I love. I own other Revolution pallets that I absolutely love, but when I heard the Coca-Cola eye pallet was ALL frosts or shimmers, I knew it was a must have. The colors are GORG and highly pigmented. They blend together well and last all day with no creasing. I grabbed the Makeup Revolution x Coca Cola Juicy Lip Gloss in the shade Elevation as well. Although the gloss has a hint of a pink tint (three tints are available), there is no color there really. There IS an amazing taste, scent and shine without terrible stickiness. (Revolution Cola’s mascara was unfortunately unavailable when I made my purchase, so I have no input on that.) All the products have a jazzy sparkle that gives me so many glamorous looks. Not hating at all. (Makeup Revolution & Target: Palette-$17.99; Juicy Lip Gloss, $6.99)

Jeffree Star Magic Star Setting Powder in Lavender – First, let me say for the record that I am not a follower of influencers. I have nothing against (most of) them personally and I totally respect the hustle. But when good products get caught in the middle of glamour drama, I usually say “Check please!” and GTFO. I want to keep my blog as stress free as possible. I have to say, however, that when I find a product that is beyond anything I’ve ever tried, major kudos must be given out. And that’s exactly what has happened with Jeffree Star’s setting powder. The reason I love the lavender is because a minor health condition I have can make my skin seem sallow. It’s hard to adjust my makeup when it does this. After learning so many tips and tricks from The Makeup Show in NYC from the best artists in the business, I began correcting my skin tone with a complimenting color—lavender! After applying my concealer and foundation, I “bake” my makeup with JS’s lavender setting powder and it neutralizes the yellowish appearance of my skin. It feels super soft, plus it even nourishes it as it is packed with Vitamins C & E. I seriously get a flawless, airbrushed look all day. The fact it is scented like cotton candy doesn’t bother my sensitive skin either. I’ve looked around for other lavender powders, but nobody has one. Even if I did find one, I’d doubt I’d ever switch now. This has been a lifesaver! (Jeffreestarcosmetics.com, $22)

ColourPop Pretty Fresh Hyaluronic Hydrating Foundation – I have said to myself that I was not switching foundation brands ever again. I had found one that was a water blend that gave me a sheer, buildable canvas. Then they discontinued it. Then age became relevant with my skin care so I had to find a foundation for specific needs. Last month, I got a subtle summer glow and I needed to adjust for that. Geesh. My foundation needs are shook. After falling in love with an eyeshadow from ColourPop, I decided to research their foundation. It actually caught my eye because the they had several different shades and age-fighting ingredients. I bought this without testing it first, but the swatches online helped me nail the color on the first try. Since I began using it, I have gotten several compliments on how my skin looks porcelain smooth. It is buildable, easy to blend and lasts all day with a powder set. I am very happy with my choice. (Ulta, $16)

Seasons are changing which means there will be some new Fall looks coming soon. I’ll break down what will be hot in fashions and accessories soon too, and the colors to look for. But for now? Let’s rock these products to keep our skin looking and feeling great. All while keeping it sassy, of course!

Advertisement

It begins…

4 Dec

Coffee of the Day (COTD): French Pressed Triple Chocolate with frothed Amaretto Creamer, dusted with Cocoa Powder. My mug of choice is a pink polka- dotted mug that says “HERS”:

Happy Monday Sassinitas!
You may notice a new section to the right of of here. It’s entitled “Coffee Talk”. Anyone who knows me knows I have a not-so-secret obsession with coffee. I like to make different flavors in different ways, enjoyed in different cups. It has also become a routine for me to make a fab cup of coffee, grab my iPad and start writing. I don’t need it to stay awake or jump start my writing process. It has just come to the point where coffee and writing go hand in hand. Like now.

Starting today, I will be posting the occasional piece in the “Coffee Talk” section where I may talk about anything and everything. It might be an inspirational quote, it might be a description of my day, it may be a pretty picture I took or found, it could also be just me ranting or raving about anything and everything or nothing at all. You just don’t know!

So I encourage you to look out for my “Coffee Talk” posts. There is only one catch…

…the posts will be password protected!

So if you want to see what I post – just in this section – you are going to have to request the password from me! Trust me, there will be nothing sketchy posted. It may be serious, it may often be funny. It may have to deal with a personal frustration, or it may have to do with a success story. It could be anything, but I’m sure you’ll be entertained!

So what are you waiting for? Shoot me an email or “Contact Sassy” so you can get the password to keep up with my rants and rambles!

Let’s have some fun!!!

Yeay!….Spring?

24 Mar

According to the calendar, spring came on Monday this week. As I sit here at my desk, you might not believe that. There is a still a coating of snow on the ground from a two foot storm we got LAST week. Some of it has melted but today the temperature is bordering on freezing so the rain that is falling right now is a combination of rain, freezing rain and sleet. Fun, fun. Let your inner self feel my excitement. Can you? Yeah… I can’t either.

With the date saying one thing but the skies saying something else, what are glamour and fashionistas to do when they want to add a few new things to their fashion/glamour collection but don’t know how to integrate them into this fickle weather? I have been looking carefully for things that I can use now but can also transfer into my regular spring routine (or even summer!) when the temps balance out to where they should be. It can be frustrating, but if you do your research there are a few things you can grab now that will be great for this time of year AND continue to be a plus as the weather continues to brighten up.

So what has Sassy been using lately? Here are a few things you may want to check out:

**Victoria Secret PINK Hoodie** – A hoodie of any sorts is a great seasonal transitioning piece. If it’s cold, wear it under a warm jacket. If it’s warmer, wear it under something lighter like a leather coat. If it is getting “warm”, wear a jazzy tee and leave the hoodie opened up. The thing that is nice about a hoodie is that they are so versatile that you really can wear any type and any color in ANY season. Since spring is here, I thought I would add a really nice pastel pink hoodie to my collection. I own no pink clothes. No really…nothing. I never thought it looked good with my auburn hair. But the shade I recently got looks really awesome. The color is flattering, the hoodie fits well, it is warm…. oh! And it was on sale! Cha-Ching! This is a great item to find on sale now so keep your eyes open for one you like.
Victoria’s Secret, prices vary by style.

**DSW’s Black Ballet Flat** – A few days ago, it was nice enough out for me to put aside boots and high-top sneakers and actually pull out a pair of flats to wear with my skinny jeans. Woo Hoo! Well, that was until I tried on the pair I wanted to wear. I couldn’t even get my toes into them! I have put on a couple of WANTED and NEEDED pounds over the winter and it seems some of it went to my feet. Maybe? It could also be from the foot surgery I had almost two years ago. I went through and tried on all my flats and realized I need about three different styles of black flats. I ordered a pair of ankle lace ups, a pair of fancy small wedges and a cool pair of flats with “studs”. Thankfully, all the other flats I have fit just fine. Flats are a must-have shoe style when the temperatures start to rise. It may be too warm for boots, but it may be way too cool for sandals. Flats come in all styles now so don’t be afraid to add a couple of pairs you like.
DSW.com, $39.95

**Kat Von D Lock-It Concealer Crème** – I haven’t been one to use concealer much over the years. I’ve been lucky—the eye creams I have used have treated my eye area nicely, kept away dryness, and have prevented dark circles and fine lines. In my last Sephora order, I got a nice little sample of the KVD Concealer Crème and I put it on my vanity to try. This winter took its toll on my eyes a little bit. Over tired, stress, eye strain, even the sun. But after I tried the sample, I was VERY impressed. I will be honest…my face brightened right up! Not only does it do a great job at hiding little imperfections in the eye area (especially underneath) but it does an amazing job at illuminating my eye area AND face! This is great for this time of year because we often find that we need to moisturize our eyes more during the colder weather, but forget to use a product to brighten the skin around them. As it gets warmer, we can protect them from the sun to keep the eye area bright but often forget to use a gentle moisturizer. While we find the right product(s) that will help keep our eye area from aging, a good concealer can hide little tell-tale signs during the process. Kat Von D’s Concealer Crème does just that! The formula is gentle and the coverage is fabulous!
Katvondbeauty.com or Sephora, $26.00

**TwinMedix Pro: Essentials E5** – About a year ago, I attended The Makeup Show in NYC. It truly was a life changing adventure, both personally and professionally. I had the opportunity to meet with world-renowned makeup artist James Vincent who was a plethora of knowledge for me. When I mentioned I was frustrated with my sensitive skin and not being able to get my hands on good skin care near me, he told me to talk to Michelle Shaffer with TwinMedix. She was a doll. I explained to her that my skin gets irritated easily and I had to switch out brands and products depending on the season. She introduced me to the TwinMedix Pro line, explaining what each product did. Five simple products was the entire routine for day and night. Easy peasy. I have been using it faithfully ever since that day and my skin has never looked better! The one item, however, that I did not know how to put into the routine was the Essentials E5 product. Come to find out, this product is actually a MUST HAVE especially when seasons are changing. It contains pure Vitamin E which protects the skin from environmental damage while hydrating and soothing skin especially when it is exposed to harsh and changing weather conditions. It also calms sensitive skin like mine. I began to use it like a primer and I have noticed that no matter what it is doing outside, my skin feels soft and protected. I use it daily, along with my other TwinMedix products. It’s nice to have a great base to my look that doesn’t just smooth my skin but nourishes it as well!
TwinMedix.com, $90.00

**Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Serum** – Winter can do job on our hair. The heat, the cold, the wind, the dry air, you name it. I have a shelf… okay two… of products to use depending on what is up with my hair. Right now? I’ve got some dry ends to deal with. But earlier in the week, my hair felt oily and gummy. Ugh! I can’t keep a ton of things in the shower, so what do I do? Not to mention, my hair is color treated which doesn’t help me try to find products that won’t hurt my “enhanced” auburn tresses either. I try to find the best shampoos and conditioners for what my hair is going through and help it get healthy with those. What’s a challenge is, without extensive research, those two items can either help a lot or do even more damage if it contains chemicals that aren’t good for my hair. But when I get out of the shower, that is when I need a good product to keep my red hair in check. I need something that will smooth without leaving it feeling greasy. I need something that will give it shine without drying it out. I need something that will keep it soft without making it fly everywhere. I need something that will protect it without weighing it down. I need something that can gently “coat” each strand to keep it healthy. Oh…and I need something that can do ALL of that no matter what the weather or temperature is outside. It needs to give me what I need without checking a forecast first. PM’s Super Skinny Serum does just that. No matter what is going on outside, a small dollop of the Serum will smooth fly-away hair on dry & windy days, it will lightly condition and seal your hair strands keeping them healthy, and it will control your hair with a formula that keeps your hair shiny, silky and frizz-free in any weather. It is also an added bonus that the Serum will speed up your drying time so you hair is not wet in unhealthy elements, giving you the results you want in less time. The Super Skinny Serum is perfect for ALL hair types so it allows you to not just get the look you want but will also allow you to add it to your haircare routine without any interference. So no matter what the weather is outside, your hair doesn’t have to become damaged from it–just a bit of Paul Mitchell’s Skinny Serum will lock in the results you want.
Paul Mitchell Salons (see their website for locations), prices may vary.

So, are you ready to say goodbye to winter and welcome in the sunny days of spring? I know I am! Gently convert your wardrobe, skin care and hair care with these items and you can cut out some of the frustration of flip-flop weather and keep your routine on the straight and narrow!!

Please share!—Sassy wants to know what YOU have that helps you transition your fashion and beauty routine between seasons. Do you have any products that helps make these changes easier? Let me know!!

And the Winner is……

23 Apr

Everyone…we have a winner!

A big congratulations goes out to Tabitha who got the secret question right for my recent trip:

Sassy will be going to NYC to watch and help with a new book launch party and book signing by the sisters at How to be a Redhead, and sponsored by the awesome crew at Paul Mitchell.

Tabitha?… I will be in touch with you this week to discuss getting the awesome prize to you soon!

The book signing was an absolute blast! I got to meet some great people, including the two fabulous sisters who wrote the book, Stephanie & Adrienne Vendetti. The fabulous crew from Paul Mitchell who was lead by Jill Schnapp–also known as the redheaded specialist in NYC–did some amazing braids on the redhead attendees as well as spoke about Paul Mitchell’s new Ultimate Color Repair line which is PERFECT for us gingers. I made a bunch of contacts including my newest friend Olive who has her own channel on YouTube called “The New York Real”. In addition, I met some great redheads who were a blast to talk with and get to know. I am looking forward to heading back to the city next week to get other fabulous information at The Makeup Show, focusing mostly on skin care and makeup products.

Congratulations again, Tabitha, for your big win! You will be getting some great Paul Mitchell products for you to enjoy!

Thank you as well to supported me on this adventure. It truly was a dream come true. Now? More dreams to tend to and traveling to come!

Sassy Auburn is getting ready to head in to the book signing!

Sassy Auburn is getting ready to head in to the book signing!

Stephanie, Adrienne & myself at the book signing

Stephanie, Adrienne & myself at the book signing

Look at those fabulous redheads!

Look at those fabulous redheads!

.
.

Stephanie, Adrienne & Jill from Paul Mitchell

Stephanie, Adrienne & Jill from Paul Mitchell

Sassy & her new friend Olive talking about future events!

Sassy & her new friend Olive talking about future events!

What would make the event more fun?  Getting a braid from the Paul Mitchell Professionals!

What would make the event more fun? Getting a braid from the Paul Mitchell Professionals!

30 Days Of Beauty… Day 2

3 Jul

FluffBenter late than never, I say. Actually, I say it too much. Sometimes things get busy and I put things off. Other times, I just say “I’ll do it later.” That’s what I did today with this post. The problem was I took a nap when I got home earlier and woke up just in time to go to bed. *sigh*. Oh well, I’m (trying to) get Day 2 done before the clock strikes midnight. And that’s what counts. Right?

30DaysThis puts us at Day 2 which is “Daily Make Up Product”. This is tricky. I will have a product of one brand that I wear almost daily, but I have it in different colors, so in my opinion that really doesn’t count. I had to really look at stuff that is a daily use product, no matter what look I am wearing, what the temperature is, or what my skin feels like. A product that looks good and works well no matter what the conditions are. And yes… I have one.

Way back when, I fell in love with a big brand name micro powder that was the perfect setting powder I had ever used. It was luminous, colorless, evened out my look, and gave me a nice smooth finish to my face. I got a sample from Sephora and I fell in love. The only problem I had with it was it came from this high-end beauty store and was steep in price. Then, one of my absolute favorite “indie” makeup beauties told me she had a powder that was almost the same if not better. She sent me a full sized product to try just for an honest review on hers and other websites. It looked like the expensive stuff but with a touch of healthy shimmer (NOT glitter,–more like a light, sparkling glow). I got way more in this jar than I did with the other brand. And I used much less than the expensive stuff. What was even better? I was supporting an independent makeup “retailer” who takes pride in her products, containing natural ingredients while saving a good amount of money. Even though that jar of the “big brand” powder is still good and in my drawer?… I’ll still grab my new setting powder before any others. And I don’t think I’d ever change now!

So that brings us to my product choice for today. A High Definition Diamond Veil that softens the look of fine lines, reduces the appearance of pores, improves and evens out skin tone, smooths and mattifies your makeup look. I personally like the fact that it “seals” in my look, holding it strong all day. I don’t need touch ups, and if my day runs into overtime, a quick dusting will make it fresh again. It’s even easy to apply using a fluffy powder brush, with just a light layer dusted all over your finished makeup look. Then, you’re done–pretty powder perfect!

So, what’s this savior that is my must have? Easy…

image
Day 2: Daily Make Up Product
L.A. Minerals’ High Definition Diamond Powder. Found only at http://www.LAMinerals.com , $19.99

30 Days Of Beauty…Starts NOW!

30 Jun

July calendarWell, I think I have found a challenge to keep me on my writing toes. I saw the photo below while looking for art to use with a past post on this blog. It made me think, “How about I push myself to write a blogpost, everyday, that corresponds with this photo?” This redhead is always up for a challenge so I thought HELL YEAH! Gloves on, bell rings, let’s do this!

Beginning tomorrow, July 1st, I will try to match the item I am wearing that day to the day’s corresponding request. If it is just a general question or favorite item that day, I’ll give my lifeline and the details about it. I will also share a photo if I can find one so you can see what the items look like if you decide to search go for them. And finally, if you want to comment with what you can contribute to the day’s challenge–go for it! I’d love to get ideas from my readers too on their daily choices or faves.

So this is what we will be doing this July, Sassinistas! Are you up for the challenge too? Join me and let’s have some fun!

30Days

Must-Have Necessities, Will Travel…

25 Sep

imageI am writing this blogpost on vacation in a cozy cabin lakeside at my favorite spot in the Adirondacks of Upstate New York along Lake George. It’s kind of off-season right now, but the leaves are just beginning to change color, there are no crowds, nights are cool by the bonfire, and marshmallows are being toasted by the bag. Fashion isn’t (totally) an issue, shoes can be casual and comfortable, and tops… well, tops just have to match and be seasonably chic. Unless you plan on staying secluded with your family the entire vacation, with no public interaction, it’s totally justifiably to wear sweats the whole time. Of course, they can certainly be Juicy Couture sweats, no doubt. You are on vacation–you’re not dead.

This vacation, I didn’t write a “What To Pack” list. That was huge for me. I usually begin planning weeks in advance. Maybe that is because this wasn’t a luxury type vacation and more of a kick back and relax vacation. I packed three styles of jeans (boot cut, skinny and capris), a few edgy short sleeve shirts, a some long sleeve shirts, a hoodie or two, flats, sneakers, sandals, and pretty much? That’s it. But even on vacation, as low key as you want to be, there are some things that you should not forget in your glamour & beauty routine. There are necessities no one should slack on. Take note: these “must haves” must be packed:

imageFacial Sunscreen – If you are choosing to bypass makeup in general during your time away, don’t forget to throw at least a light layer of multipurpose sunscreen designed for your face. It doesn’t matter where you go, what you do. There will be sun and that causes aging, at least prevent that. Not to mention, you don’t want to invite cancer-causing rays to get through. Find one that is gentle enough to use under the eyes as well. And while you’re thinking of it, get an SPF lip balm too. Fight those harmful rays as much as possible. Sassy likes: Perfectly Posh’s My Hero 30+ SPF Facial Sunscreen

imageGentle Face Cleanser – Even if your day only consists of reading a book in a lounge chair on the edge of the beach, your skin is still going to regenerate skin cells daily and you are going to need get rid of them each day. You don’t need anything funky, fancy, or even sink required. A good cleansing wipe before bed can be convenient to use at anytime–especially nighttime–and are convenient to pack too. Wipes actually do two things: they cleanse with a non-rinse formula and they gently exfoliate with the fabric of the cloth. Depending on your skin type (oily, blemishes, dry, aging, sensitive) you may want to look for something that matches your needs. Otherwise, a general all-purpose wipe will be fine for all types to cleanse and exfoliate. Sassy likes: Simple’s Cleansing Facial Wipes

imageBody Lotion – Yeah, some hotels give you all those little bottles of “stuff” for hair, body, mouthwash and lotion. If you can use anything?–Knock yourself out. But my body can get dry in different air, exposed to air and/or sun, using a pool or jacuzzi, or even just a difference in temperatures. This is where you would be best off getting a travel jar or bottle and filling it with a lotion that you can use and works well with your skin. Remember, try not to use perfumed lotions since the alcohol can be drying. Something rich but not sticky is a perfect (and with a light natural scent) can be a nice treat for your skin before bed after a busy day. Sassy likes: HEMPZ treats’ Vanilla Creme Brulee Delicious Body Lotion

imageimageHair Accessories – Okay, Sassy confession: I got hair extensions last week. I will be writing a blogpost soon about extensions do’s and dont’s soon enough, but for now, let’s just think of the hair you have now. Days will be windy, skies can get rainy, hair can get unruly. It’s not a bad idea to have a few accessories like a headband, a big jaw clip, maybe a soft ponytail holder, even a few stylish clips to keep your looks casual yet classy. Don’t let the weather get the best of your locks. A good conditioning spritz before you “style” will keep them hydrated while they’re in control. Sassy likes: Scünci’s Effortless Beauty Slide Clips & it’s a 10’s Miracle Leave-In Plus Keratin.

imageKick Ass Sneakers – Okay, I know fashion may not be on your mind this week, but the fact it you will be socializing some local landmarks, window shopping, some walking and sightseeing and-like me-shopping, you need something to be walking in. Everyone has a favorite footwear, and I support that 100%. Comfort supersedes style when shopping. However, if you can combine BOTH? You. Rock! I was lucky enough to find an epic pair or high-tops that scream style wherever I go. And I can walk all day in them and never have an issue. Find a comfortable pair or shoes or two or three and give them a vacation too! Sassy likes: Converse Chuck Taylor’s High Tops black with star design

So, in your frenzy to pack the bag that you need for vacation, do not forget these important items. I would really say in regards to your beauty & fashion, these items will be critical in keeping you looking young while still getting the rest and relaxation you need that is necessary to keep you feeling young as well. Don’t let yourself “go” while you get away. But trust me, it is important for mind, body and soul!

Casually Wet Wednesday!

27 May
Casually Wet Wednesday!
Tomorrow’s outfit for the day: super casual with a graphic tee
& jeans, a bit of leather for the cooler temps, and long-wearing
makeup that will withstand the elements!
Oh, and perfect for my rockstar look too?…You bet!

A perfect ensemble for a classy, casual day at “the office”. Clothes are perfect for comfort, accessories make the look edgy, and the makeup gives an all-day look with POP!

26 May
A perfect ensemble for a classy, casual day at "the office". Clothes are perfect for comfort, accessories make the look edgy, and the makeup gives an all-day look with POP!

Juicy Couture fragrance
$59 – thehut.com

KENNETH JAY LANE bracelet
revolveclothing.com

Hoop earrings
icing.com

Black handbag
dailylook.com

Alice Olivia blazer
aliceandolivia.com

Lancôme lancome mascara
neimanmarcus.com

Rimmel foundation
$10 – boots.com

2b bebe skirt
2bbebe.com

It’s New… But Is It Good?

10 Sep

Back to schoolSchool is back in session and with that come all new fashions and cosmetics to help you get your vogue on! New styles, hot looks and chic accessories to help you make the start of the new season first-class fab! Today I stopped to talk to my favorite glamour consultant who was filled with the latest info on what was new on the market. What was cool is some of the things she showed me I had already tried, so I was able to give her my personal opinion as well. She helped me, I helped her!

So what are THE hot new makeup and glamour items out right now? Let me show you a few:

image1. Maybelline Volum’ Express Falsies Big Eyes Waterproof Mascara – The thought behind this product is supreme! Why someone didn’t think of it before now is beyond me. The concept is simple–the purple end of the mascara has a long, big brush to coat your top lashes to look full . The opposite black end has a very thin, comb-like brush to get at every skimpy lower lash to make them stand out. You can even use this brush to get in the corners of your eyes to coat those hidden lashes. My experience? I have been using this mascara on and off for a month now. The brush idea is great! I am really able to “get in” and coat ALL of my lashes with both brushes. The mascara formula? I’m not completely thrilled with. It does stay ALL DAY–doesn’t smudge or flake–but I don’t think it makes my lashes as “lush” as other formulas. I’m not quite sure yet if I’d buy it again myself. But for the price and stay power? Completely worth the purchase!

image2. Bath & Body WorksSignature Fragrance Collection Shimmer Mist in “Beautiful Day” – If you are a glamour girl heading back to school, then this is your time to shine! a shimmer mist gives you a flirty scent with an all-day sparkle to make you look, feel and smell fab. This scent paints you with a crisp top scents of fall apples, pears, peonies and blonde woods. Delish! My experience? I love, love, LOVE this new scent! It’s fresh for spring but has the scents of fall fruits to keep it seasonal. I layers this scent to help it last its longest: shower gel, triple moisture body cream, and the shimmer mist. No matter what is on my agenda, this scent just keeps me smiling all day!

image3. Maybelline FitMe Shine-Free Foundation – If you are like me, the thought of any type of foundation in a stick sounds like it would be heavy, greasy, any not in a shade that would match my skin at all. And up till now, that has been my experience. But Maybelline went a step beyond. They put a foundation in a gel with anti-shine core that neutralizes oil the minute you put it on and keeps absorbing to give you an all-day matte finish. Convenience combined with clean coverage–perfect! My experience? If the stop making this foundation, I’ll cry for years. In all my years of wearing, trying and testing foundations, I have never used one with such fabulous coverage but still feels light as air. I don’t have to worry about shine no matter what. It stays put and does slide off my face like liquids do when it’s hot. And convenient? The gel stick makes it a breeze to just swipe, wipe & go! A MUST-HAVE.

image4. Hard Candy All Glossed Up – I grew up on the glamour and convenience of pencils in a beauty routine and I’m very psyched when I see a company nowadays revamp the old crayon into a new, luxe makeup item. Sometimes they hit, sometimes they miss. The sad fact is, though, that crayons have a limited style life so they may be hot and hip with the current colors but then the seasons changes and the colors and sticks are gone. What is nice about these Gloss sticks is they are über glossy, but are infused with the long lasting pigments of a stain. Long lasting color with a non-drying formula. Exactly what a girl on the go needs! My experience? I really love this gloss stick. I have yet to find a straight-up stain that stays put, doesn’t dry out, or doesn’t stay true to its original color. Although this goes on like a colored gloss, the base color does stay true like a stain. Even if the gloss disappears during coffee or lunch breaks, the stay will “stick” around. Then I can just add a moisturizing gloss if my lips start to get a bit dry. Available in 8 go-with-all shades–great long lasting, drenching color that lasts. I will be getting more because they are SO convenient and simple!

image5. Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo Pure Pigments Loose Powder Shadow – Maybelline is no stranger to the long-lasting eye shadow concept. Now they have come out with a loose powder with high pigmented color with no fall-out glitter. Yeah, I said those two things in the same sentence–no fall-out and glitter. In order to have this stay power in the past, shadows had to be a cream with a built-in primer and sealer. But now they have a loose powder in power colors that do the same!! My experience? Gotta say, I haven’t used it. But boy am I intrigued! I have more eye shadows than I know what to do with. But it might be a nice in an all-over highlighter color for me to build off of. Especially if it is high in sparkle and low in fall out!

Get ready–here comes the yellow bus! It doesn’t matter if you are getting ready to get on yourself or if you are putting on one of your own. Make sure you look your best! The glamour industry has so many innovative products now. Daily touchups are barely needed. Don’t think that these long-lasting make-up items are all hype. Seriously, most do what they say they will. I can’t tell you how convenient is not to run to the restroom every two hours! And as a student in school? It is a blessing. These all-day products certainly get an A+!!