Make-Up Storage and Organization

It has taken me a long time to perfect my make-up collection, and goodness, I'm still working on it as we speak.  I am always hunting for that perfect foundation, the most pigmented and blendable eyeshadows, and the make-up brush I can't do my make-up without!

The way that I organize my make-up collection in my "dressing room" as I call it (aka our guest room, haha) is extremely important to me. Looking at a wonderfully organized make-up collection gives me pure joy! It's an odd fascination, but I adore it!  If you have a lot of make-up, why not organize it so that you can see all of it and actually be reminded to use it? This is why I've taken the time to find organizers and pieces that make organizing and storing make-up easy and effective.

I really have the most trouble organizing my samples as well as lipstick and lipglosses!  As many of you know, I am obsessed with lipstick (specifically pinky-nude shades which are currently taking over my purse at the moment but anyways...).  I am constantly adding to my collection (Ryan loves it obvi), and the space has just become so limited.  I'm still working on the most practical way to see and use all of my lipsticks and lipglosses!  If you have any recommendations please feel free to comment!

Here are some pictures of my make-up collection and the way I've chosen to store a few things! 

Vanity Dressing Table | Chest | Organizers

This is about as clean as it gets people...

Whats a make-up vanity unless it's rough around the edges? *scrubs concealer off of glass* :)

The extra drawers on my vanity are filled with eyebrow products, concealers, lipbalms, single eyeshadows, mascara, and small foil samples! 

These are my babies, people.  My most favorite make-up product -- foundation!!

Just in case anyone wanted a close up of my dirty brushes, here ya go...

Recycled Anthropologie candles are perfect to hold brushes!

These are only my favorite "higher end" lipglosses.  I wasn't brave enough to photograph all of them...

As you can see, I have a thing for Chanel and Buxom glosses -- nothing compares! They are the best.

The Alex chest from Ikea is perfect for organizing, especially since it has different sized drawers.

These are a few of my blushes and powder products.  I have separate drawers for my bronzer's and highlighter's!

Thank you for taking the time to read my post!

Another great option for any of your storage needs would be self-storage through a company such as MakeSpace!  Sometimes not everything can fit in your house. :)

xoxo, molly

eyebrows | product review

Hi, everyone!! I hope everyone is enjoying this warmer weather we are starting to get here in South Carolina.  (Finally!) Today I wanted to share with you what I use on my eyebrows and how EASY the products are to use.  This isn't necessarily a tutorial, but more of a review.  I change up what I do quite often and have typically stuck with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz and ABH Brow Gel when filling and shaping my brows.  However, have ya'll SEEN what's been up at the drugstores lately?  The drugstores are definately stepping their game up - and I'm falling for them!! I didn't even purchase these products with the intent of using them everyday.  I just sort of picked them up impulsively.  Now, they are my go - to, and I don't know when I'll switch up my routine again!

1. Loreal Brow Stylist Definer in Brunette 6.99 @ Walmart

This product is SUPER similar from the ABH Brow Wiz but way more affordable and just as good.  It's super creamy so when you blend out with the spooly that comes on the other side, it looks lovely! Not to mention, the spooly is pretty fantastic! The blonde shade was way too light for me so I returned it and got the brunette shade and it's perfect. 

2. NYX Tame & Frame Tinted Brow Pomade in Blonde 6.99 @ Ulta

 This product was something I bought a while ago and through in the back of my drawer, not expecting to one day use it and fall in love with it! It's SO easy to use.  Just dip a thin eye brush like the one in the picture below and sweep it to shape the brow.  Since it's a pomade it also acts like a gel. 

 

I use the pomade first, and then go back in with the Brow Stylist and fill in any parts that need some extra attention.  The Brow Stylist has a super fine tip so it literally mimics hair when you apply it slow and steady! Blend everything out with the spooly. 

As always, thank you for reading!! xo, molly

If I had to pick one...

"If you had to pick one _____ , what would you choose?" is a question I've received recently, and I thought, how fun would a blog post be about this??  What a great question, as I'm constantly searching for those wonderful products that live up to the hype, or that I've discovered myself and cannot let them go...  So, here's the burning question answered for a few categories.  Enjoy!

Make-up brand to use ... So tough.  Probably Lancome, they have just got it figured out. I like pretty much like everything I've tried by them.

Foundation to wear ... Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk.

Skincare item to use ... Some sort of gentle exfoliating moisturizer.  Possibly the Clinique Turnaround Overnight Cream.  I've been loving it recently!

Mascara to wear ... Maybelline the Falsies.  It's just the best.........

Lipstick to wear ... MAC Cosmetics Creme Cup. I've gone through tubes and tubes...

Eyeshadow palette to wear ... Oh!! Urban Decay Naked Original.  Keep it simple...

Bronzer to wear ... Soleil De Tan Chanel Cream Bronzer. Swooooon.

Highlighter to wear ... Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Highlighter.

Review | Boscia Black Collection

I received this as a Sephora 500-point perk and was really excited about it! I love the Boscia brand, and a lot of things I've tried by them I've ended up loving.  When I saw that this set came with a cleanser, a mask, and a moisturizer I knew it was a good time to use up some of my points!  I used these three products consectively for a week or so.  After that, my skin wasn't responding the way I wanted it to, so I stopped.  Here are my brief thoughts on each of them... 

1. Detoxifying Black Cleanser - This cleanser was supposed to be a "detox" for your skin.  I was hoping it would get rid of blackheads in a flash, and really clean deep into my pores.  I think this cleanser cleaned TOO deep into my skin, so deep that it actually started making my pores look really rough and enlarged.  It was also very drying, something a cleanser should NOT be.  

2. Luminizing Black Mask - This was a fun little perk in the kit.  I love a good mask!  I also love trying different masks.  This one is a peel off mask, which I'm not a super big fan of, but I went with it anyways.  You must generally apply this in order for it to peel off easily.  When it does peel off, it takes off little tiny peach fuzz hairs, which sort of hurts, but does leave your face SO smooth!  Whatever doesn't peel off, you can wash off with water, but that is harder.  My face was sore afterwards, but I did notice that it look away the look of pores and cleaned my skin.  Woo hoo? No pain, no gain? I'm indifferent.

3. Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel - This was my favorite part of the kit!  I was excited about using a "treatment" that would stay on the skin.  This product actually is black, with tiny sparkles in it.  The sparkles aren't bad, they actually are so tiny I didn't mind the little glow.  The black takes some getting used to, and I actually didn't try this moisturizer during the day because I was afraid it would leave a black tint, ha.  This lotion was very soothing and cooling on the skin.  It sunk in quickly and felt nice on my skin.  It wasn't enough hydration for me since I have dry skin, but I think it would be amazing for someone with oily acne prone skin.  I think the cooling feeling would really sooth irritated skin as well.  If you fit into this category, definitely give it a go! 

I love trying new products! 

Have a good week. :-)

molly

Review | Simple Cleansing Micellar Water

Cleansing water!! That sounds amazing to me.  Simple and easy.  And that is exactly what I had in mind when I purchased this product from a local Walgreens.  I had high hopes, as I've heard bloggers everywhere RAVE about Bioderma and how it is so gentle and removes every trace of dirt, oil, and makeup.  This is the same type of micellar water that Bioderma is, except this is only $7 at the drugstore, whereas Bioderma is a) a few dollars more for a smaller bottle, and b) near impossible to get your hands on.  This Simple Micellar Water was also in the "new" area of walgreens, so I thought it was worth a shot to try, especially since it was 6.7 fl oz.  

I tried this at home the first day I got it, and it removed a lot of my face makeup product.  However, I had to drench my cotton round, and by the time I was done, I felt as if I was basically whisping a makeup saturated cotton round all over my face.  I didn't really feel like I was getting it off.  The second time I used it I decided to use two cotton rounds instead of one.  This worked better for me, but it still wasn't super "easy".  I also didn't think it removed my eye makeup very well.  I refused to scrub hard over my eyes, and thus, gave up, because the sweeping I was doing wasn't getting the job done.  Not cool!

I think this product is great for freshening up after a workout, or mid way through the day if you don't wear a lot of makeup.  I also think its good for a gentle cleanse at the end of your day if you DIDN'T wear any makeup that day.   However, I will be sticking to my Boscia Makeup Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil to remove my makeup and cleansing my skin with my normal cleanser (which i'm obsessed with, I'll have to update you guys...).  :)

xoxo,

molly

Review | LAVANILA The Healthy Deodorant

The Healthy Deodorant by Lavanilla in Pure Vanilla

I'm back, guys! It's been a bit, I know.  Life got a little busy for a while. ;) <see previous post> However, I'm motivated and feeling inspired lately, so I'm here to stay!  Short and sweet review today!

+++++

This. Stuff.  I'm just going to go ahead and say this quick - I LOVE IT!  Every lady needs this as a part of their life and on top of their vanity.  This is the best deodorant I have ever tried, and I will continue to purchase it over and over.  I think the smell is what really does it for me.  It smells like pure vanilla (hence the name....).  Sometimes I apply it at nighttime after a shower just because it is nice to fall asleep to.  The scent is pretty strong, but I don't mind it because I enjoy it so much.

This deodorant I tend to use sparingly, though.  It is $14 for 1.7 oz, which is a little on the high side, but it's expected since this isn't sold in drugstores.  It does not hold up against vigorous activity, such as working out or a long day at work, BUT, it does hold up throughout the majority of an eight hour work shift, and it is perfect for a date night!  Sometimes the smell is enough to just enjoy as your perfume (sounds odd I know), but I find when I mix this with another scent, its almost too much.  This stays fresh smelling, and doesn't mix with sweat to create a really fowl scent like you can sometimes get when you use Secret, or Dove. Do you guys know what I'm talking about?!  Oh come on, I can't be alone in this.  

Anyways, I'm all for this splurge! Talk soon...

xoxo,

molly <3

It's Been a While | Can't get enough of this lately...

Hey everyone!!! It has been a while, I know.  Life got a little crazy for a bit, and I really needed to put my time into some things so that I felt like a normal human being.  But, good news, I'm back!  And I'm feeling more inspired than ever!  So to start us up, I wanted to share a few products that I cannot get enough of lately, and they've all been STAYING on my face.  Okay, not literally, I take off my makeup every night.  But the next morning, you can bet they'll be back on. ;-)  I do this thing where I obsess over a product and can't put it down.  That's a good thing though! I love finding products to obsess over - it's the sign of holy grail!!

What I've been loving recently:

Two Faced Born this Way Foundation in Light Beige - An amazing full coverage foundation that's so light and airy, it feels like nothing is on your face! It also has coconut water in the ingredients, which keeps you hydrated and glowy all day long. 

BECCA Cosmetics Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop - Speaking of glow, this is literally the most GORG highlighter I've ever tried.  So creamy and the littlest goes a long ways.  If you're in the market for a highlighter, pick this shade up!  In the picture, I hit the tops of my cheeks, bridge of my nose, and a TEENY bit on my chin.  It was a hot day, so I knew if I sweated a little I would look like a disco ball...

Marc Jacobs Enamored Hi-Shine Lip Lacquer in Moonglow - Just a simple lipgloss that lasts forever and adds a bit of a "your lips but better" look. I love it! It's infused with peppermint, so I love putting it on. :)

Marc Jacobs Under(cover) Perfecting Coconut Face Primer - I'm just coo-coo for coconuts lately I guess!  This primer is amazinggggg.  It was totally a splurge/impulse buy because let's face it, who gets excited about primers?  But, boy, am I glad I got it.  It smells amazing (think soft scent of coconuts), and feels like a mixture of the Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer and the Two Faced Hangover Primer (both I am a fan of).  I won't ever repurchase either of those two primers because this one tops them both.  It makes your makeup actually last, and it feels so good to apply!

Thank you so much for your understanding of my little break!  Today is my birthday, so I'm celebrating tonight! Hope you guys have an awesome weekend. ;)

molly

Whats In My MakeUp Kit? | MakeUp By Molly!

So, confession... I'm that super curious girl that wants to know what kind of products are in someones drawers, or bathroom cabinets -  Creepy, right?! Recently, I've enjoyed doing makeup for different women for various occasions.  I've made a specialized kit of my own, and today I'm sharing with you other curious people what is inside!  This is the makeup that I feel looks AWESOME on everyone, and better yet I feel that the products I've chosen cater to people of all skin tones, types, and looks.  I feel comfortable going to someone with this kit and saying "Ok, I have what you'd like your makeup to look like. Let's do it."

My makeup kit doesn't include my brushes - as those are their own special entity. :) But it does include everything else - from foundations, to setting sprays, to post-it notes. Yep, you read that right!  There's organization to my kit, but not to this post.  I'm just going to mention some of the high lights in my kit.  

I have several foundations that I adore for special occasions - Luminous Silk by Giorgio Armani, Nars Sheer Glow, MUFE HD Foundation, and Laura Mercier Silk Creme.

My lip products range from matte to glossy - nudes, pinks, reds.  I always keep some vaseline with me to prep the lips before anything! That way, it provides a moisturized, smoothed canvas for lipstick to be applied at the end. I keep disposable doe foot applicators handy to dip into glosses to keep things sanitized!

I keep highlighting concealers, and high coverage concealers handy.  I like to keep high coverage ones in case there is need, but they are also easy to thin out if someone doesn't like full coverage concealers, or simply doesn't need a full coverage one!  This one by Urban Decay "Naked" is amazing because its weightless and so easy to blend out, but it still provides full coverage.  

My Milani brow fix kit is the only drugstore product I keep in my kit (besides the tools, like the applicators and the eyelash curler).  The Milani kit has a blonde color as well as a brunette color.  I love a good drugstore product, but I'm also skeptical to include a lot of those products in my kit because I know the importance of using high quality ingredients - especially when I do others makeup.  You never know who could have an allergic reaction, so I tend to use higher end products on others. 

Ardell individual lashes give me lifeeee. Dramatic, but true. They are so handy, and so easy to apply!  

I always keep extra spoolies, cotton rounds, and q-tips just for mess ups.  Any type of makeup remover is always a good idea, too.  I have this one from Clarins right now.  I can apply it to my q-tips to perfect any eyeliner mess ups, or I can use it to clean up any eye shadow fall out. It also serves as a cleanser/refresher which is great to sweep across the face when I'm beginning!  

One of the most handy tricks I've ever learned comes from Amelia Liana, also one of my most favorite beauty bloggers.  I use post-it notes on the edge of my eyelids to minimize eye shadow fall out and to create a clean line.  It also makes applying a smokey eye or liquid eyeliner a breeze.  Let me know in the comments below if you'd like to see me go more in depth on how I use my post-it notes!

Foil packet samples are another handy item I carry in my kit.  I make a lot of online orders through Sephora - and for those of you who don't know, they include 3 samples with every order!  Sometimes I use the samples, sometimes I keep them in my bathroom for guests to use, and sometimes I grab a few to keep in my kit.  They are just really convenient to carry around, and they are the perfect size to use on others.  Right now, I have some mattifying primers that I'm using on my oily skinned clients.  Those primers are great for them, but I have no use for them!  So in my kit they go. 

The last, but certainly not least honorable mention is a good setting spray.  This one, (hidden beneath the shadows in the picture) is one of my favorites - the All Nighter Setting Spray by Urban Decay.  You don't need a lot of this product for it to do it's job.  I finish up every look with one spray pump of this - and somehow the magical ingredients in this little bottle GLUE your makeup on.  For oilier skin girls, I prime the skin with it before I apply foundation to really lock everything into place.   

I hope you guys enjoyed peeking into my makeup kit!  I'd love to do your makeup or someone's that you know.  You can check out my page here for more information. Talk to you soon. :-)

xoxo, Molly

Tutorial | No-Makeup Makeup Look

Excuse the beautiful pony tail in the pictures below.  Let's talk about makeup here, guys. :-) I want to share with you one of my go-to looks.  This is the perfect look for when you wake up late, need to run a few errands on the weekend, or a quick clean up after the gym.  I can easily put all of this on within 5-10 minutes, and it never looks too much, which lets be honest, I can easily have on too much. ;-)

Bobbi Brown BB Cream | Burberry Fresh Glow | Laura Mercier Cream Bronzer | Sephora Airbrush Foundation | YSL Babydoll Mascara | Anastasia Brow Wiz in Taupe | Stila All Day Liquid Liner in Brown | Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara | Nars Lipgloss in Orgasm

1. Mix the BB cream and liquid illuminator into your fingertips and then apply to your face.  Blend well with your fingers so there are no streaks.

2. Apply a cream bronzer onto a small dense brush.  Dab and press the bronzer into your face, so that it's even and not blotchy.  Bring that bronzer up your cheek bones and onto your temples.  

3. Fill in those brows with your favorite brow product! I like the Anastasia Brow Wiz because the point is super tiny and you can actually create streaks that look like tiny brow hairs.  Brush out with a spooley to blend any harsh spots.  If you have unruly brows, set with a clear brow gel.  

4. Apply a brown liquid liner, or a pencil liner to your upper lash line.  Create a small flick at the end.  Curl those lashes, then apply mascara to the top and bottom.  

5.  Apply a sheer, shimmery gloss.  All done! 

Review | Kate Somerville Nourish Moisturizer

(I know you notice Essie's licking marks on the window - obviously I clean well.  Hey, I'm human.)

Rarely do I buy the same moisturizer (or other skin care products) twice.  I'm usually up for trying something new just for the sake of it--there are endless products out there!!  But, I have fallen for the Kate Somerville Nourish moisturizer, and when the day comes that I've ran out of it--I will be very sad. Why? Because you have to take out a small loan to buy it.  Can you tell I'm bitter? ANYways... 

This cream is lightweight, but moisturizing - which is IDEAL for me since i'm dry and dehydrated but also struggle with breakouts.  It does have a scent - somewhat herbally.  I like it though, and typically I don't like herbally scents.  This one isn't like Origins where you literally feel like you're putting trees on your face, it's more natural smelling.  I love how nourishing (ha) the product is.  It sinks immediately into the skin, and you are left with baby soft skin that actually feels smoother after a few uses (It is considered to be anti-aging as well, so it slowly exfoliates over time).  If this moisturizer wasn't so expensive I would keep buying it. However, it's just too much in my opinion for how long it lasted.  Granted, I did use this day and night.  It lasts about 2 months.  I'm trying out a new moisturizer now that's $20 less and just as great.  I'll let you guys know what it is soon. :) 

This is definitely a winner in my book if you have dehydrated skin and struggle with breakouts.  Would I repurchase though?  Maybe during the Sephora 20% off VIB Rouge sale. ;)

I'm all about some smiley's today.
What have you fallen in love with recently?

xoxo, Molly

Foundation Friday | Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35

So I feel like all of my reviews lately have been "this product is amazing" reviews.  But that's okay, right??  Well, here goes another one.  Today I'm reviewing the Bobbi Brown BB Cream with SPF 35.  This product has been a holy grail (amazing... what for it) for a few months now.  I have it in several shades (light, fair, medium).  The packaging is super lovely and easy - typical Bobbi sleek black tube, light weight, no spills - PERFECT for slapping on and going, or for a vacation when you just want the livin' to be easy.  

Now for the formula.  It's close to perfect.  The coverage is a light-medium coverage, and it has a natural dewy finish.  If you set with powder - it's a natural finish.  The lasting power is amazing on me.  My favorite time to use it is in the summer and spring, because it makes your face just look fresh and healthy.  Along with the SPF, it is indeed healthy for your skin.  It protects, and it lasts.  Now for an itty downside - it reeks of SPF.  It's basically like you are slapping coppertone on your face.  If you can get past that (because, well hey, it is a sunscreen product) then you'll love it.  

I have to admit, I'm not a big fan of Bobbi Brown.  The three products I love include this BB cream, as well as her extra repair eye cream and shimmer bricks. I've tried other foundations by her, but always ended up returning.  However, THIS will always be in my foundation drawer. 

Do you love Bobbi Brown? What are your favorites by her?

xoxo, molly :)

Review | Tatcha Cleansing Oil and Rice Enzyme Powder

Can we all just take a moment to oooo and ahhhh over this entire beautiful line of skincare - and this packaging? I. Die. I'm such a sucker when it comes to packaging.  If something looks gorgeous, I always fall for it, and then end up thinking did I really just pay that much for this little of something?!  But.... I have to say, this little bottle and jar certainly impressed me.  They impressed me so much, I'm not sure I can live without them.

My friend (that gets to test a lot of beauty samples) let me try these little gems.  I sampled both of these products separately.  The first product - the Tatcha One Step Camellia Cleasning Oil is a cleansing oil said to remove all traces of makeup and dirt.  Normally I use a cleansing oil to remove my makeup - so I decided to use this product just for a pre-cleanse.  I first noticed that it is more of a dry oil than a thick moisturizing one.  For me to have enough spread-ability I had to use about 7 pumps of the oil.  To me, 7 pumps is a lot.  I'm not sure if it's because the travel size oz. pump doesn't dispense that much product...? I dunno.  But if I had to use 7 pumps every time I used this, I imagine the product would disappear quickly... and I was correct.  Unfortunately I ran out of this product in about a month.  I apply the oil directly to my dry face and massage it in.  I'm careful around my eyes because since it's a dry oil, it feels a little tuggy around the eye area, and I don't want to risk loosing any eye lashes (sounds crazy I know, but hey, I don't have that many as it is!) Rinsing off is a dream. | Every | Single | Trace | of makeup is gone.  I dry my face with a white towel afterward, and I'm amazed that nothing is left behind.  WINNER in my book.  My face is left feeling clean but not tight.  Not tight, but not super nourished either (which I'm fine with). 

Now, let's talk about the Tatcha Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder.  This product I will never EVER be without.  I don't think I have ever loved a product so much after testing it.  So, this product is a SUPER gentle exfoliator - made up of tiny rice bran granules that when water is added, create a foam.  It can also be used as a cleanser when not wearing any make up.  You take the cap off and sprinkle some into the palm of your hand, add water, and massage it into your face.  It's creamy, lathering, foaming, (insert here several other adjectives that describe something beautiful and luxurious).  After using this immediately my face is left balanced and feeling SO smooth.  Better yet, when I use this in the morning, my moisturizer following sinks in so quickly, and my skin is normal throughout the day.  Before using this I would have an oily t-zone by lunch.  Over several weeks of using this I have to say that my acne around my chin has decreased, my skin has become more balanced, and my face has just looked and felt more radiant.  Exfoliators are SO necessary in a skincare routine.  Try any gentle one today, and you'll notice the difference right away.

Tatcha . . . I'm obsessed, and you amaze me.  

I've already ordered more from this line.  You can check it out here.

Foundation Friday | Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

Ahhh Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk - let's all just take a moment to take this in.  The packaging, the formula, it's all so beautiful.  But how does it REALLY measure up to all of it's hype?  I have a few honest opinions about this foundation!  

I have two shades in this foundation.  In the pictures below I'm wearing shade 6, which is a warm shade.  That was when I had a self tan, so it matched me well, and will be lovely when it gets warmer again.  But, once it started getting colder, I knew I couldn't really continue to review unless I had a lighter shade.  So, I got shade 4.5.  The shade range is awesome - it comes in 24 shades ranging from pinks to peachy to yellow (cool, neutral and warm).  4.5 is a neutral shade.  I wish there was a shade that had a bit of neutral and a bit of yellow because that would be PERFECT for me. But, I can mix the 6 and 4.5, and that gives me a good glow.  

Foundation | Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk in 6

Lips | Nars Audacious Lipstick in Raquel with MAC lipliner in Spice

What Nordstrom says:

"Capture the glow of perfect skin with Luminous Silk Foundation, an oil-free fluid with exclusive Micro-fil™ technology. So weightless, it redefines foundation. Its hydrating fluid glides on seamlessly with a silky texture and all-day, buildable coverage"

What I say: 

This foundation does indeed give you a glow.  It is oil-free but not to be confused with most oil-free products that tend to be over drying.  This is a moisturizing foundation, and I tend to reach for it on my dryer days.  I do set it with a powder, because if I don't, it gets a little too shiny for me.  It doesn't accentuate dry patches with it's easy to glide silky formula.  I would agree that it has buildable coverage, but It's hard to achieve a FULL coverage with this foundation.  I would say medium is as much as you'll get before you have to start caking it on.  The foundation lasts about 9 hours on me.  After 9 hours, I wouldn't vouch to go out to dinner, or go to a special event or anything like that.  Luckily I don't leave my makeup on for longer than 9 hours, so it works for me (I take my makeup off right when I get home from work, or I must touch up with powder and concealer if I want to go out).  It is SPF free, and it does photograph beautifully!

So is the hefty price tag worth it?  I'm not sure I'll repurchase.  It's too similar to my Nars Sheer Glow that I cannot live without.  I'd rather vouch for the full coverage that I get with my Nars.  

Thats all for now, folks! :-)

xoxo, Molly

Winter Make Up Go-to Look!

Ladies... it's seriously winter time in the south. 45 degrees!? Come on mother nature, we live in South Carolina for a reason... bring back Summer!  At least we can bring out the cool tones in our makeup--right?  Of course, I would think of that random thought. :) My favorite cool tone eyeshadows are those found in the Naked 2 Palette, and it seems its the ONLY thing I can pick up lately.  I've created my go to look thats super easy.  Here it is!

 1. Take those sticky notes, and apply to outer edge of eye up to the end of your eyebrow

2. Apply a mix of foxy and bootycall all over the lid

3. Apply tease and pistol lightly in the crease.  Build up the color slowly and keep blending until there are no harsh lines

4. Apply bootycall to the brow bone

5. Apply pistol to the upper lash line (like you would an eyeliner) 

Foundation | Nars Sheer Glow in Sante Fe

Lipstick | MAC Syrup

Blush | Milani Luminoso

xoxo, Molly 

Foundation Friday | MUFE HD Invisible Cover Foundation

MUFE HD Invisible Cover Foundation

I decided to do something a little different with Lipstick For Laughs.  I want to start doing more product specific reviews, and I thought that a fun series would be a good way to incorporate those! And what is more exciting to review than foundations?!  Also, guess what... I have a lot of them. :) They are probably my most favorite makeup item purchase.  I guess I'm just always in search of something that will make my skin look.... well, good, really.  If you have a foundation you've been wanting to try but don't want to buy before trying it, leave it in the comments down below and I will do a review on it if I own it!

These are probably the most frequently asked questions that I get (once people know I love makeup) regarding makeup.  "What's the best foundation?" "What foundation do you use?" "Have you tried this foundation?" And I am always happy to give my personal opinions! Now, not every foundation that works for me will work for you, and vice versa.  It's fun to keep trying ones that accommodate with your skin type, and in turn you will find the perfect one for you!  My skin is dry, and I like a medium-full coverage foundation on most days. I also like when foundations have a dewy-luminous finish as opposed to matte or semi-matte.  For those of you reading this thinking "wait, I didn't know there was so much to this", remember this is a beauty blog, so I'm interested in these kinds of things. :)

Okay so let's get to the review.  I purchased this foundation about a month ago now, and I feel I have used it enough to give my honest opinion! I've always heard so much rave about this foundation from beauty bloggers and youtube guru's and it's about time I picked it up to try for myself. This foundation retails for 42$ at Sephora and MUFE stores and counters.  I was lucky enough to get it at 20% off during the Sephora Friends & Family sale (Thanks, Lane.. :)) so I bought this foundation for around 34$.  That's still a very high end foundation so I was expecting an awesome product.  This foundation comes in a broad range of 26 colors for all undertones and it does not contain an SPF.  I picked up the shade 120, which is honestly my lightest shade foundation.  I wish I had got one shade darker, just because I almost look a little washed out with the color I chose.  But I usually just add some bronzer, and I'm good. The description on Sephora.com states:

"An oil-free medium-to-full-coverage liquid foundation that covers skin imperfections flawlessly while remaining invisible on-screen and in real life.This foundation creates a soft-focus effect, which is designed to meet the coverage concerns of those in the spotlight. It leaves your complexion with such a flawless finish, it can withstand bright or harsh lighting." -Sephora.com

I agree with most of this description.  It's oil free, which is nice because it makes it thin and light weight.  I do get occasional breakouts, so oil free is good for me.  However, I also have dry skin, so when I see oil free I sometimes worry it will dry me out.  I found this foundation to be a rather moisturizing foundation even though it is oil free - which is really exciting!

Sephora describes this as a medium to full coverage foundation, and I would describe it more the lines of light-medium.  To get a full coverage application I would probably have to use 4 pumps of this product-which in my opinion is too much to use in a single application.  Personally, it doesn't give me enough coverage to cover up acne scars, but I can take care of that with some concealer Just to give you an idea, I usually use about 2 pumps of my foundations.  

Now, the reason why I AM a fan of this foundation is because of it's finish.  It has such a unique finish on the skin that I have not been able to find in any of my other foundations.  It's luminous but without being shiny or sparkly.  It's the type of foundation where I don't need to apply a powder and I would be perfectly happy with it's finish.  It doesn't oxidize on the skin, and it really does create a soft focus effect on the skin - which makes it lovely for photographs and for special occasions.  I think this would be a great foundation for someone starting out with makeup or high end foundations.  It's gives a decent amount of coverage without making you look over done.  It does not contain SPF, making it not the safest to wear in the sun.  If you do wear day-to-day, wear a moisturizing SPF underneath. 

All in all, I would give this foundation a ranking of 3.5 out of 5.  

Does anyone have any requests?

xx, Molly :)

Skincare Routine!!

Colder weather is upon is... gracious it even snowed last night (I'm writing this post ahead of posting it.. ha)! With a different temperature outside comes crazy times with my skin.  My skin becomes tight and uncomfortable when I don't treat it right--which leads to breakouts, uneven texture, and unbalanced skin.  So, I have to take care of it! And heck, even when I do take care of it I get breakouts.  Nonetheless, many of you have asked me what my favorite skincare products are, and I'm finally ready to share my entire routine! 

It's taken me a while to really find products that I love and that work for my skin type.  I have combination/dry skin that can sometimes be sensitive, and I struggle with breakouts, especially on my chin/mouth area--this also results in post acne brown spots that DON'T GO AWAY--ugh. (Can you tell I'm bitter?)  I don't like products with too much alcohol or fragrances, and I try to use mineral oil free products because any time I use a product with that ingredient I get cystic acne. Woah, what a mouthful, now do you see why it took me forever to find products that work for me?

Skincare is the base for everything else you put on your face.  It's going to let your makeup go on more smoothly, and it's actually going to protect your face from your makeup.  You never want to apply your makeup unless you've moisturized your face properly.  If you're reading this and thinking *well crap*, then try it for yourself--I promise you'll notice a difference!  And here's your warning...If you think a lot of steps in your routine is ridiculous and you may judge me, then you may want to stop reading now.  :) 

Here's a bit of a disclaimer here: I'm no genius on skincare, nor have I had any training, and I'm also no esthetician.  I enjoy learning about this subject, therefore I've done research on my own time, and I like to try out certain products for myself and see how they all differ.  

Okay enough rambling, however, this will be a lengthy post, so grab some hot cocoa and relax for a bit. :)

My steps for the evening: 

1. Pre-Cleanse : Ole Henrikson Pure Truth Melting Cleanser 

2. Cleanse and/or exfoliate : Shiseido Ibuki Gentle Cleanser

3. Treatment : Ole Henrikson Invigorating Night Treatment and/or Salicylic Acid spot treatment 

4. Serum/oils : Algenist Age Repairing Oil (I don't do this step every night, only if I need extra moisturizing) 

5. Moisturizer : Eucerin Q-10 Sensitive Anti Wrinkle Cream or Ole Henrikson Nurture Me

1) The Ole Henrikson Pure Truth Melting Cleanser is a wonderful first step.  This enables me to get ALL of my makeup off before actually cleansing my skin.  It smells of oranges, and is soothing and hydrating to my skin.  It also contains vitamin C and primrose oil so it brightens and nourishes the skin.  I apply it to a dry face and massage it in, then add water and it turns milky, then rinse.  

2) Now you are ready to cleanse the skin! I love the Sheiseido Ibuki Gentle Cleanser because it makes my skin feel so clean without stripping it.  The smell is a pretty strong fragrance, but I don't know what it is about it, I love the smell.  Usually I hate strong smells--but this is different! I actually started using this when Ryan and I got married so the smell reminds me of our Antigua honeymoon. :) 

3) This is my favorite part of my routine because this product is the product that has changed it ALL for me! This is my most favorite skin care product, and I recommend it to everyone because it addresses so many skin care needs.  The Ole Henrikson Invigorating Night Treatment is a green gel formula that contains an Alpha Hydroxy Acid complex including glycolic acid and lactic acid.  This little miracle product has helped my acne SO much.  I still get occasional breakouts, but it's much better now.  It has also helped even out my skin tone and texture, and has helped fade my post acne scars.  It also contains glycerin which helps hydrate your skin and keep your skin glowing.  It tingles a bit when you first apply it, but once you start using it every night, the tingling goes away.  If you'd like to address any needs that I mentioned I have--GET THIS! 

* I have to mention too that with certain products, don't expect miracles over night.  I used this night treatment gel for about a month before I realized that my acne had stopped around my mouth/chin area and that my dark spots were fading. Don't give up, and truly give a product some time. 

4) Serum/oils: This is a step I don't do every night.  I haven't used a serum that I really like, and I haven't really been looking for one.  I actually think of my Night Treatment Gel as a serum because it's extremely concentrated, moisturizing, and fights against aging.  Now, I do use an oil every once in a while when I need some extra care.  The Algenist Advanced Anti-Aging Repairing Oil is my favorite.  When I use this, my skin is smoother, more balanced, and clearer when I wake up.  

5) Moisturizing is so important.  It's the thing that seals the deal, and helps your skin feel comfortable and nourished.  I love using something rich enough to repair my dry skin, but I also want it to sink in.  I don't want it to just lay on top of my skin and never absorb.  I've found these two moisturizers to do just that.  And they are both SUPER rich! The Eucerin Q-10 Sensitive Skin Anti Wrinkle Cream is simple--not many ingredients, no fragrance, leaves a semi matte finish, and is HIGHLY nourishing.  Plus it's only 10 dollars from the drugstore.  It's a great budget option.  The Ole Henrikson Nuture Me is rich and soothing.  It smells like creamsicles, and contains vitamins and oils that nourish and comfort the skin.  It's amazing for night time, and I actually feel that this moisturizer has helped fade my dark spots as well.  

My steps for the morning: 

1. Cleanse : Ole Henrikson Pure Truth Melting Cleanser

2. Eye Cream : Olay Total Effects CC Eye Cream ... nothing fancy here.  It depuffs my eyes and is gentle enough for this area!

3. Moisturize : For day time, I like something light that does the job.  The Eucerin Daily Protection SPF 30 Moisturizing Face Lotion has a high SPF and is light on my skin while still providing me with a good amount of moisture. 

That's all, folks! What skincare products do you love??? Anyone have any suggestions??? 

xx, molly :)

Sephora F&F and VIB Rouge sale!!

It's that time of year again!! The fall is always an exciting time for make up junkies because it's always the time for Sephora sales.  Yes, sales!  Sales don't happen at Sephora (or like ANY make up counter unless you have a special coupon, ha) often--in fact only about 2-3 times a year.  

Many thanks to Lane for giving me a promo coupon for the Friends & Family sale! Don't fret if you didn't get a chance to get a F&F coupon because Sephora is having their VIB/VIB Rouge sale the 2nd week in November.  Since I received this 20% off from Lane in an online coupon and a in-store coupon, I decided to pick up some of my favorite items, and also get some things I've been wanting to try for a while!  Here's what I picked up in two embarrassingly large hauls...

haul 1:
1) Benefit Holiday blush palette (Holiday collection)
2) Hourglass Ambient Blush palette (Limited Edition)
3) NARS All Day Luminous Powder Foundation (New!)
4) Two Faced La Belle Carousel (Holiday collection)

 

haul 2:
1) St. Tropez Self Tanner starting kit (A new obsession!!)
2) Anastasia Brow Wiz in Taupe (holy grail!)
3) MUFE HD foundation in 120 (has been on my wish list forever)
4) Marc Jacobs Beauty Face Brush #2 (NO WORDS, amazing!!!)
5) Ole Henrikson face wipes in Nurture Me MakeUp Removing and Clean Truth Brightening

 Ambient Blush Palette

 Benefit blush palette

 

This brush is so dense and it blends any foundation in flawlessly! I would never pay full price for it, but with a discount I can't deny. :)