Monthly Favourites - November 2010

In every Monthly Favourites post, I always say something along the lines of, "I can't believe it's ___ already!" or "Time is going by so fast!" Seeing as I would hate to break tradition, I have to say: November really really flew by for me. But I'm so happy it's December, because it means Christmas is right around the corner! But enough blabbering from me, here's my November Faves:

1. Revlon - Beyond Natural Skin Matching Makeup

I wasn't too jazzed about this foundation at first. I didn't feel there was enough coverage and I didn't really like the finish. But once I found the perfect way to apply it, I've been obsessed! I'd say it's around light to medium coverage and is absolutely buildable. It looks natural on the skin and really matches my skin better now that I use a brush instead of my fingers. I'll do a more in-depth review soon, but this has definitely been the base product I've reached for the most this month.

2. Sigma - F50 (Formerly SS 187) Duo Fibre Brush

It is thanks to this baby that I've fallen in love with the Revlon Beyond Natural foundation. But it works beautifully for other liquid face products as well. By stippling the product onto the skin and then blending it out, you achieve a gorgeous finish. Some say "airbrushed," but I've never used any airbrushing equipment on my face so I can't say for certain if that's the finish it achieves. But gorgeous is definitely a good word to describe the finish I achieve for myself.

3. Sleek MakeUP i-Divine Sunset Palette - Cranberry Shade

This entire palette is gorgeous; in fact, Sunset and Storm are probably 2 of Sleek's best palettes. But I've come to really enjoy this one shade in particular. I'm pretty sure it doesn't have a name, but it's a gorgeous red with a satiny finish. I've used it in two looks recently, one of which I posted yesterday. It's amazingly pigmented and the velvety texture allows it to blend quite easily. I never though I'd love a red eyeshadow, but there you go :p.

4. Lush - The Olive Branch Shower Gel

I've had this shower gel since the summer but I never used it until fall/winter rolled around. It just smells so amazingly warm that it feels more appropriate to use it when the weather's a bit chilly. No, it's not the most moisturizing of shower gels, nor is it a brilliant exfoliator; but it there's something so welcoming about it, especially when you shower with really warm water... That's why I love it so much!

5. Lush - Sympathy For The Skin Body Lotion

This lotion is definitely a staple for me in any season, but I've come to really  appreciate it this winter. Although it isn't technically winter yet, we experienced a period of below freezing weather and my skin has suffered for it. Sympathy for the Skin has kept my skin wonderfully moisturized; it retains moisture better and smells absolutely delicious. The combination of The Olive Branch and this lotion is especially glorious!

6. Lush - Angels On Bare Skin Cleanser

Angels on Bare Skin is really such a wonderful cleanser. It leaves my skin looking and feeling smoother and doesn't strip any moisture at all from my skin. Actually, I would feel comfortable saying it's moisturizing as well because I can get away with not applying moisturizer on my skin after using this product. Not only is it simple yet effective, it's also one of Lush's vegan products. It has natural ingredients and no parabens, sulfates, or any preservatives.

7. Nivea - Milk & Honey Lip Balm

Smells lovely (milk and honey? Come on!) and moisturizes just as well as my well-loved tinted lip conditioner from MAC. Also, it was less than $3. There is no losing with this lip balm! No fancy tricks here, but it's a very effective product. An more in-depth review is coming soon.

8. Revlon - Sugar Plum Nail Polish

Applies smoothly and effortlessly, plus it dries so incredibly quick! The shade is gorgeous, too. Perfect for the Holidays! 

Happy December, lovelies!

What were your favourites form last month?

READ MORE - Monthly Favourites - November 2010

Monthly Favourites - October 2010

Time is definitely flying, isn't it? I completely forgot about my monthly favourites until yesterday! Nevertheless, here they are:

1. Sigma - Large Angled Contour Brush (F40)

I've only started contouring a few months ago (*gasp*) and the Sigma F40 (formerly the SS168) is absolutely perfect for it; plus, the bristles are super soft. I'm absolutely loving this brush at the moment!

2. Physician's Formula - Bamboo Silk Bronzer in Light Bronze

Since the weather's getting colder, my colour's fading a bit. These bronzers are actually sold separately as a bronzer refill and a compact. The compact has two compartments that has a good sized mirror and a brush. It's not a bad brush; it's quite soft and works in a pinch, but I typically use the Sigma F40. Anyway, the bronzer itself is quite lovely. Like the name suggests, it's quite light so it's perfect for you light-skinned lovelies. The darker powder is matte and the powder that makes the bamboo design has a slight shimmer: it gives a very natural glow and isn't glittery at all.

3. MAC Eyeshadow - Satin Taupe & Shale

These two have become my staples for my everyday look. I use Shale (a "mauve-plum with subtle shimmer") along the lash line and in the crease while I used Satin Taupe (a "taupe with silver shimmer) along my lower lash line. It keeps the look natural but gives great definition and polish. 

4. MAC Plushglass - Big Baby

This is the MLBB lipgloss for me. Described by MAC as a "peach with pink and white pearl," it makes my lips look more polished but is still very natural. It has a pretty pleasant tingling sensation and a lovely vanilla scent. 

5. MAC Lipstick - Jubilee

And now for the MLBB lipstick. I already talked about Jubilee here so I won't bother getting into a lot of detail. But as the MLBB title suggests, it's my fool-proof, fail-proof lipstick. I often pair it with Big Baby and they're both perfect for those moments when you feel particularly lazy and just want to slap on some lip product to polish up your look. Also, the awesome thing about MLBB products is that you don't have to worry about looking ridiculous when they fade. Which is perfect for me because I usually can't be arsed to re-apply :p.

6. Giorgio Armani - Emporio Armani She

I have a pretty big soft spot for this fragrance. She is described as "a fresh blend of delicate florals, heliotrope, almond accents and a caressing wake of vanilla and cedar wood that melt together in perfect harmony." So yes, it smells lovely, but that's not what I love most about She. I was given this perfume way back in 2005/6 while I was in Milan for a week. I started using it while I was still there and since the sense of smell is relates closely to our memory, I'm pretty much transported back there every time I use it. I've started using it again this month and every time I do, I remember Milan :).

What are your faves from this month?

READ MORE - Monthly Favourites - October 2010

Monthly Favourites - September 2010

I can't believe it's October already! Time sure does fly... I personally can't wait to bust out the sweaters, scarves and boots. And I love when the leaves start changing colour! 

Anyway, without further ado, here are my favourites from September:

1. MAC Powder Blush - Pinch O'Peach

I wanted a true pink blush and remember tossing around the names Well Dressed and Pink Swoon. However, when I swatched them in store, they just seemed much too cool for my complexion. Pinch O'Peach is perfect because shows up as pink on my skin, yet the hint of peach makes it wearable for someone like me. Plus, it's more pigmented than other pink blushes I've tried.

2. Bare Escentuals - bareMinerals SPF 15 Foundation 

So when my skin suffered through a Meltdown, I pretty much gave up on bareMinerals ever giving me the coverage it used to. I replaced it with the Laura Mercier Mineral Powder, which I still adore. However, despite my best mediocre efforts, I did get a tad darker. So I gave bareMinerals another go (at this point, my skin was almost back to normal) and guess what? It's "working" again! It really does give great coverage and makes my skin look dewy and fresh. 

3. MAC Powder Blush - Harmony

That mangled piece of sadness is actually a blush (I assure you). I've started using Harmony to contour my face (which I've never done before, shock horror!) a few months ago and I'm a bit addicted to contouring now :p.

4. Origins - Mega Mushroom Moisturizer

As I've mentioned here, this moisturizer was a bit of a disappointment at first. However, lately (as I've since mentioned here) I've started using it again and I have to say i gives me the perfect amount of moisture. It leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth and doesn't make my face feel greasy after a few hours (unlike my Daywear Plus Creme).

5. MAC Eyeshadow - Cork

As I've already mentioned, I've been addicted to contouring, and that includes contouring my eyes. I've taken to using this for the socket and also between my nose and eyes to create more of a bridge (I seriously have none). Cork is pretty much perfect for this.

6. Revlon Nail Polish - Plum Seduction

I'm in love with this colour! It's a great consistency (thin, but reaches opacity within two coats) and doesn't leave brush strokes on your nails. It doesn't last long without a top coat, but the gorgeous colour more than makes up for it!

What are your September faves?

READ MORE - Monthly Favourites - September 2010

Monthly Favourites - August 2010

SEPTEMBER ALREADY?! 

The year is going by so fast! I feel so unproductive! Alas, that won't change until I get a job. This month's favourites will be on the smaller side because, as I said, I am jobless and therefore broke. Nevertheless, here are my faves from the month of August.

1. Sigma E25 Brush

My favourite brush of the moment. It's great for applying eyeshadow all over the lid and it's fantastic for blending. On top of that, it's super soft and has not shed in the few months I've had it. The E25 is one of the few brushes I have that I want to have a duplicate of.

2. Rimmel Lasting Finish Pro - Steel Grey

A perfect way to transition from summer to fall; this colour is not only gorgeous, it's also multifaceted. In some angles, you get a straight up grey. In some, you see a bit of greige. In yet another, you see a hint of purple. Well, this is what I see, at least. Also, the formula's quite nice. It applies fairly evenly and dries quickly. A plus if, like me, you're too impatient to wait for your nails to dry.

3. MAC Mineralize Blush - Dainty

I recently realized I don't have a true pink blush. I'm late to the whole mineralize game but I'm so glad I picked this up. It's the perfect pink for me (not too blue) and applies very nicely. I've taken to applying this with a Sigma F50 which gives it a more airbrushed look. 

4. MAC Eyeshadow - Naked Lunch

Such a gorgeous eyeshadow! This is probably what I reach for the most when it comes to everyday looks. I would normally apply Naked Lunch all over my lid and define the crease with whatever tickles my fancy. It looks like a plain beige on the pan but it has a pink/peach undertone to it which is quite evident when applied to the lid. It also has a nice shimmer.

5. Neutrogena UltraSheer Water-Light Daily Face Sunscreen

Don't let the term "Water-Light" fool you. This is actually not that liquidy when applied to the skin so you don't need a lot. The best part about this sunscreen is that it makes your makeup apply even better. Getting sun protection and priming your skin? It sounds too good to be true, but I assure you, it works! My foundation always looks much better when I've applied this after a moisturizer.

6. Lush Shower Gel - Rub Rub Rub

I love this shower gel! It has a gorgeous floral scent that is quite invigorating. It also has exfoliating properties (sea salt) so my skin always feels smooth afterwards. It's not very moisturizing, but I don't have very dry skin so it's not a problem for me. This is such an awesome product to use in the mornings, it always puts me in a good mood.

7. Garnier Fructis Curls & Shine Mousse

This curls my hair so amazingly! Granted, I do have naturally wavy/curly hair, but no other product makes my curls look as nice. It smells lovely, as all Garnier Fructis products to, and gives my hair fantastic volume. Love this!

What are your August faves?

READ MORE - Monthly Favourites - August 2010

Monthly Favourites - July 2010

Does anyone else feel like this year is going by unusually fast?

I certainly do.

Anyways, here are my favourites from the month of July:

1. The Body Shop Cucumber Cleansing Milk

I purchased this product during The Body Shop's 2 for $10 promotion. However, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it so I foolishly only bought one. Regardless, I would gladly repurchase this at full price ($8.99 CAD for 250 mL = awesome deal!). It's so refreshing, especially on warmer days and cleans skin gently but effectively.

2. The Body Shop New Facial Buffer

Such a wonderful little product! It's gentle enough for daily exfoliation (I use it every morning), yet effective enough to keep my skin looking radiant and supple. Take note: the dye from the label does seep into the buffer so you will have to repurchase every so often. I've been using this for a little over a month and it's already looking a little dirty. Although I think the way it's stored while drying makes a big difference, i.e. don't hang it vertically so the dye won't seep downwards. Click here to read a more in-depth review.

3. Boots Original Beauty Formula Cleansing Milk

A simple cleanser that removes face (not eye) makeup effectively without causing a reaction to my sensitive skin. Click here to read a more in-depth review.

4. Korres Wild Rose 24-Hour Moisturizer

My skin-saver! It cleared up my dry patches in around 3 days and relieved the sensitivity in about a week. It smells wonderful and has given me my old skin back. Click here to read a more in-depth review.

1. Sleek MakeUP I-Divine Eyeshadow Palettes

Wonderfully pigmented, great texture, awesome selection of colours, easily blendable; and all in a small, lightweight case. After having experienced the Sleek Palettes, I honestly can't see myself splurging on eyeshadows anymore. Click here to read a more in-depth review.

2. MAC In The Groove Mineralize Skinfinishes

I purchased By Candlelight and Petticoat (and missed out on Stereo Rose, dagnabbit!) when MAC released the In The Groove collection and I can finally see what the big deal is with these MSF's (<-- that's me dropping abbreviations, yo!). They are so ridiculously gorgeous and gives you a wonderful healthy glow. I foresee another obsession joining the blush & lip product club! Click here to see more product photos.

3. MAC Vegas Volt Lipstick

Gorgeous texture, gorgeous shade, perfect for summer! I love using this lipstick when I've gone neutral everywhere else. It adds just enough oomph to a look without looking like costume makeup. It is absolutely my favourite lipstick at the moment!

4. Viktor & Rolph Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum

Oh my goodness, do I ever love this scent! It's feminine but musky, a winning combination for me as I find the more feminine scents to be too cloying. I like my scents strong; scents that are more woman, less girl. It's such a sexy scent and the bottle is divine! I'm in love!

5. Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15

I purchased this product after giving up on Bare Minerals foundation. I was dealing with The Meltdown at the time and had a ridiculous amount of dry patches all over my face. But, I didn't want to wear liquid foundation all the time as I was dealing with major sensitivity as well (my face was very itchy and stung whenever any moisture touched it). So I purchased this and what a Godsend! It didn't attach itself to my dry flaked (as powder products are wont to do) and has the most amazing creamy texture when applied. I'm serious, it feels gorgeous on the skin! Also, it has fantastic coverage, I barely even needed to conceal my blemishes (and I had many). Dare I say, this possibly HG material for me? Yes, I do dare!

Those are my July Favourites, what are yours?

READ MORE - Monthly Favourites - July 2010