Wet N Wild x Little Twin Stars Collab

I'm such a sucker for all things Sanrio.  Something about all of that brings me back to my childhood; it's very nostalgic for me.  Now that I have a daughter, I like finding things for her that are Sanrio themed.  We have a lot of Hello Kitty stuff in our home, and we (I), also enjoy Little Twin Stars.  Way back in October of 2021, I found that Wet 'N Wild had an entire makeup collection being sold at Ulta, that was Little Twin Stars themed.  I couldn't help myself and bought all of it.  I've got some of the products from the box, below with some swatches. 

If interested, the entire Little Twins Stars x Wet N' Wild Collection is available directly on the Wet N' Wild site and is now on sale.  Amazon also has some items. 

Edit: Ulta only has two items from the entire collection left in stock.  The two lip products are The Star Dust Lip Mousse in the shades Candy Cloud 9 and Lost In a Cloud.

The entire collection, as shown above, includes two makeup sponges, a makeup sponge holder and cup, four lip products, a makeup bag, two lip masks, two face palettes, an eye shadow palette. makeup setting spray, four eye liners and two makeup brushes. 

Fun cosmetics pouch.

Little Twin Stars x Wet N' Wild Setting Spray

Two glosses and two satin finish lipsticks.  The swatches on the right are shades Lost In A Cloud and On Cloud Nine 

Blush brush and shadow brush.

Closeup of the makeup brush handles. So cute.

I recommend the blush, very pigmented but super powdery. Be gentle when you dip your brush. 

I will say that I did not enjoy the shadows from the palette.  They were not pigmented, and had almost no staying power. A shame because the colors are unique and you could get creative with them.  I get a lot of use out of the blush and highligther. I wore the glittery stars as a cheek highlight on Halloween. The most fun! The blending sponges were just OK, a little dense for my liking.  Overall, this was a fun makeup set, with cut packaging and some good products that will definitely liven your mood.

xx

BEST FACIAL IN MIAMI- CAUDALIE, BRICKELL CITY CENTRE

I recently visited the Caudalie boutique at Brickell City Centre in Miami. The boutique, located on the second floor near Zara, has a quiet and zen treatment room.  The spa offers facials and body treatments by trained estheticians who exclusively use Caudalie products. This is an honest review of my experience getting what I consider to be one of the best facials in Miami. 

WANDER BEAUTY

Wander Beauty's On The Glow Blush and Illuminator duo. A two-in-one product that's easy to travel with.
The shell is part of the Sunday Forever Witch Kit

Wander Beauty's On The Glow Blush and Illuminator duo  

Wander Beauty is a new beauty and makeup line that was created by two women, model Lindsay Ellingson and business woman Divya Gugnani, who saw the need to cut down on the amount of stuff they packed when they traveled. They also needed to streamline their busy mornings.  They took this concept, of multi-tasking, no fuss products,  and created Wander Beauty.

Most people like to pack light when they travel; an idea that admittedly, escapes me.  Still, I'm aware that many women need to travel with only the essentials.  When you add a few kids into the mix, keeping things easy becomes even more important.

Most products in the Wander Beauty line are dual sided for this reason.  They are 2 in 1 and easy pack or throw in your purse.  Wander Beauty is cruelty free :) The line is also free of parabens, synthetic fragrance and mineral oil.  They also offer a selection of gluten free products.

You guys, the line is really, really good. I've been using it for over a month and will not go back to another concealer. Read below for product reviews on my faves.

MALLY BEAUTY MALLYWOOD COLLECTION

When I received this package from Mally with their Mallywood collection, I was really excited. Years ago, when Mally first debuted on QVC, my mom and I would watch her promote her products. She's really fun, vibrant and has so much passion that she pours into her brand. She really stands behind her products, and if any of you have ever tested items from her line, you know why.

The Mallywood spring collection is limited edition and available online at Ulta, and the Mally website. It features:

• highlighting blush ($28)
• smokey mama mascara ($20)
• wazza wazzup ombre highlighting trio ($32)
• limited edition eye shadow palette ($29)

Swatches after the cut: 

NEW IN BECCA COSMETICS

Today, I'm sharing some new stuff from Becca Cosmetics that I've been testing for a few months.  Plus, some of the products are currently 50% off at Sephora. 

Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlight ($38):  I have the shade Prismatic Amethyst. This is the best daytime highlight shade. You can see the shift in tones below;  it's less pink, and has more of a lavender shift with golden undertones.  This is a a subtle highlight however, don't be afraid to pile this product on if you're looking for something more intense, because it layers well.  TFE Pro Tip: wet your brush or spray some Mac Fix +  to use this product as a brow bone highlight or an all-over lid eye shadow lid shade.

In the quick snaps below, I am wearing the under eye brightener and the highlight. I applied the highlight on my cheeks, tip of my nose and cupid's bow. It is a bit difficult to see but it swatches beautifully and is subtle.

Liquid Crystal Glow Gloss (on sale for $11): these glosses are beautiful and lightweight. They come in unique shades, that are not traditional - a good thing. They wear well over lipstick and will provide a pretty holo shift.

Under Eye Brightening Corrector ($32):You must give this a try but understand that it's not an actual under eye concealer. Of all the Becca products I've tested, this is my favorite one. It's an under eye brightener that breathes life back into tired eyes. I know a few brand new mama's that love this, too. It has a tacky feel upon first application, but once you blend it and set it, you won't feel it. I don't apply it directly under the eyes, but a bit lower on the face.

Shimmering Skin Perfector Luminous Blush ($34): this is a great product because it is pigmented (like crazy), applies smoothly but most of all, is long wearing. Blush is the first thing to go on me, but this wears well. Dip your brush but then shake off the excess before applying.  This shade below is Camellia.

That wraps up this post on the new Becca products that I have been trying out.  I am also testing out a new product photography method and love how the white background makes the products look.

Disclosure: all products in this post were provided to me by PR.

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEA: MAC LIPTENSITY LIPSTICKS AND LINERS

MAC Liptensity lipsticks have tons of staying power without being drying. They leave a satin finish. The original shade range included 24 colors that I swatched in a video and blog post when they first launched.  They are super, super opaque and deposit richly pigmented, creamy color. Now, the original twenty four have some new brothers and sisters. The range has been expanded for the Holiday's to include the colors:  

Something else that's new for the Holidays? Matching Liptensity lipliners. The corresponding shades match up perfectly with their partners. 18 new lipliner shades in all. 

Mac Liptensity Lipsticks retail for $21.

Mac Liptensity Lipliners retail for $21. 

FTC: MAC provided me with the Liptensity line, reviewed above.

CLARINS FALL COLLECTION AND SWATCHES

Clarins Fall 2017 Fall Collection roundup:

• Jolie Rouge lipstick in the shade Deep Red - super opaque, and creamy. A bold, blue based red that applies seamlessly, and wears very comfortably. Highly recommend. 
• Super Restorative Instant Lift Sheet Mask  - I'm an absolute sheet mask addict. If I'm being honest, I'm actually bothered by my love of the sheet mask. A single use product is difficult to justify, price-wise. But, whatever.  My all time favorite is this mask, but this Clarins mask gives similar results (visibly plumps) and is less expensive. You'll also have a good laugh when you put it on because it wraps around the back of your ears and your neck. 
• Clarins Lipliner Pencil in the shade Roseberry - a creamy matte lipliner that applies very smoothly and is not patchy. This shade is a great berry shade.  I've been wearing it to work and lasts a good portion of the day. It's a bit drying because it's matte, but if you layer it with a balm, it's perfect. I use this one.
• Ombre Matte Single Eyeshadow in the shade Midnight Blue -  the name of this shadow is deceiving. It's not a matte. It's got a beautiful, very subtle sheen. It can be easily built up. It wears best over an eyeshadow base or primer, to bring out the vibrant blue pigment.  I recommend pairing it with this shadow base. 

Swatches below xx

SEPTEMBER BEAUTY FAVES

Wearing Loft Sweater, Pared x Cabana eyewear

Playa Hair Care: the new botanical based haircare line that has Vogue talking. Take a look at the ingredient list on the back of your current shampoo bottle. Lots of alcohol right? Lot's of nasty, shine-stripping, chemicals, too. Not with Playa. The line was developed out of a desire to create haircare without the harmful stuff. The scent throughout the line is amazing and subtle (think Henri Bendel Fig Spray).

• Supernatural Deep Conditioner: this feels really rich and creamy right out of the tube.  It coats your hair beautifully and smells subtle. 
• Endless Summer Spray: gives you ocean beach waves without any stickiness. It's the only product I've tried that truly mimics an oceanside 'do.'
• TFE Pro Tip: I like to pair the Playa Endless Summer Spray with the OUAI wave spray.

Korres Wild Rose Smoothie Brightening Priming Moisturizer: I love this particular line from Korres. The Korres Wild Rose oil is an essential part of my skincare routine. Now, this moisturizer has become another must-have for me. This primes the skin PERFECTLY. It sinks in in seconds. It smells great. It does not make me greasy throughout the day. The only downside is the price, and that it does not contain SPF. I will continue to purchase this product.  Can't say enough good things about it.

ExfoliKate: everyone raves about this. The hype is real, people! I bought the small size, from Sephora, but will definitely be investing in the larger size. I have sensitive skin that is prone to redness but I didn't experience any redness or splotchiness after using this. It did not sting uncontrollably either (some of the reviews on Sephora are crazy), but that wasn't an issue for me.

Maybelline Fit Me Matte and Poreless Foundation: This drugstore foundation continues to be my favorite, long wearing foundation. It's consistently beat out other formulas and other brands. It makes my skin look smooth and can be built up to full coverage (I wear shade 120).  Oh, and it's eight bucks.

Newa: The complete Newa system was sent to me to try out!
What is it? An at-home, FDA approved skin tightening and brightening device that emits radio frequency in the form of a warm facial massage. The end result is firmer skin, lessening of wrinkles, and a more radiant complexion after one use. An added bonus is that using this product has been clinically proven to jump-start your body's own collagen production so that you can rebuild elasticity. I'm planning on filming a first impressions with the Newa this month, so stay tuned for that.

Amore Pacific Vintage Single Extract Essence: Amore Pacific treated me to a facial using their products. I was/am new to the line. The products contain ginseng, green tea extract, and bamboo sap. They focus their budget more on science, and less on ads, which is why you may not be as familiar with this high-end skincare brand as others. 

I am in love with the results of this product. It's like a toner, that restores your skins balance. It has no fragrance, whatsoever, is refreshing and helps calm and sooth redness. It also tightens and hydrates. For someone like me that struggles with uneven skin tone, it has really helped.  The Amore Pacific aesthetician recommended bypassing the cotton pad, and dispensing this right onto the palms of your hands. Gently tap the product into your skin until fully absorbed. PS: be on the lookout for an entire dedicated post on this line, to see what's really worth your dollar.

And my best September beauty secret: laughter + good friends. 

FTC Disclosure: Playa, Amore Pacific and Newa provided me with gifted product. 

Urban Decay Vice Liquid Lip Swatches

I swatched two of the most popular Urban Decay Vice Liquid Lip colors down below: 714 and WSM. The Vice Liquid Lip formula is matte, and can be carefully layered if you make sure to allow the first coat to dry. The colors are super opaque, vibrant and beautiful. They wear well for 5 plus hours before becoming a bit crumbly at the corners. They have a more lightweight feel than traditional matte liquid lipsticks, but they can be somewhat drying. Applying a bit of a light balm to your lips before wearing these will take care of that. 

TFE Pro Tip: for best application, do not press your lips together as the formula is drying. 

Urban Decay Vice Liquid Lip in shade WSM

Laser Facial Risks And How A Caudalie Facial Helped Save My Skin

As bloggers, we are oftentimes invited to try out new local experiences. I write about fashion and beauty, and as a result, I'm always scoping out the newest skincare/beauty launches and treatments in Miami. In February, I had a "laser facial." Lured by the promise of renewed, glowing skin, I went in for my appointment with high hopes. The truth is, I should never have done anything because there was nothing wrong with it. At the time, I had a great routine going; my skin was already healthy and hydrated. I've never had an issue with dryness...until this "facial." The results were terrible. As you can see, I ended up with squares imprinted on my face, from the laser nozzle. After the red square patterns faded, I was left with extreme dry patches all over. I also have lots of texture that I never had before. 

It's now May, three months later, and my skin is JUST getting back to normal. 

I credit Vanessa (a great aesthetician) over at Caudalie Brickell City Centre, because she gave me an incredible, hydrating facial. I have plans to go back next months! Below, I've got a full breakdown of the products she used, plus outfit details. 

Caudalie Brickell City Center: 701 S. Miami Ave

Spa Facial Menu here.

E-mail to book a facial at Caudalie

Outside the Caudalie boutique and spa - Brickell City Centre

Kari Gran Lip Whip - Lip Swatches

Today's post is all about the natural and hydrating, Kari Gran Lip Whips, some of the most nourishing colored glosses that I've come across.  Kari Gran has a back-to-basics approach to skincare and makeup. Named after the brand's founder, they seek to combine a love of makeup and beauty with a no-fuss,  organic, chemical free list of ingredients that make for a great line. 

Kari Gran Lip Whip in Shimmer

Kari Gran Lip Whip in Suji Red

Below, I've got the shades swatched for you, but first, here's why I love the lip whips:

MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lipsticks - New Launch! Swatches!

The excitement when MAC sends you a new launch is REAL guys. There are days when a package at your doorstep makes your day and when MAC sent their new Retro Matte liquid lipsticks over, well, let's just say day made. 

The previous launch of these liquid lipsticks left us feeling sad because the formula was drying, but they've reformulated their ingredients. Now, the lipsticks are not overly drying, but still very long wearing. They're intensely opaque and provide great color payoff with just one layer. They have a slight tackiness to them initially, and then dry down. The best way to remove them is with an oil based cleanser (do not even try Bioderma or other Micellar waters). 

There are twelve new colors in the launch, each retailing for $21. Shade Burnt Spice is my favorite nude shade. They're mostly earthy, cool toned colors that are wearable, except for Young Attitude (because I can't walk into the courtroom wearing blue lipstick), and it was also patchy. Carnivorous is a beautiful, deep red, and just a tiny bit patchy. Try a red liner underneath this shade.

Ten shades swatched down below.

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