This giveaway is a simple 'thank you' to show my gratitude towards my followers and friends alike. I appreciate all the positive words and true kindness I receive from all of you, and each day it always makes me smile to know how lucky I am to have you! Without readers this blog would not be as successful in my eyes, so thank you for all the comments, messages, emails, views, and genuine support.
Good luck!

Details
Fill out the Rafflecopter below and follow the instructions to be entered.
Open internationally.
One winner will be chosen at random.
All entries must be submitted by 12 a.m. Eastern Time on December 1, 2012.
All entries from multiple or spam accounts or accounts set up solely for giveaways will be void.
I purchased all of the items myself with my own money from either a drugstore, Wal-Mart, Sephora.com, Ulta.com, Cherryculture.com, or the brand's website. The makeup bag was free from a Target promotion.

Prizes
Eyes

Maybelline Mega Plush Mascara in Blackest Black

Maybelline Lasting Drama Eyestudio Gel Eyeliner in Blackest Black
Lips

Wet n' Wild Megalast Lip Color in Don't Blink Pink and Pinkerbell
Wet n Wild Lip Liner in Brandy Wine

Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balm in Quenched

L'Oreal Colour Riche Lip Gloss in Watermelon Crush

NYX Mega Shine Lip Gloss in Beige

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in San Paulo

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Cherish and Honey
Face

Wet n' Wild Powder Blush in Mellow Wine

NYC Sun Bronze Bronzing Powder in Hamptons Radiance
Makeup Forever HD Powder Deluxe Sample
Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Deluxe Sample

Ulta Mini Tweezers and Brow Gel
Nails

LA Splash Nail Art Glitter in Embellished, Golden Egg, and Tropic Teal
imPress Press-on Manicure in Ecstatic Cling
Other
e.l.f. Blending Eye Brush
e.l.f. Eye Shadow Brush
Soho Cosmetic Bag




Enter Here

a Rafflecopter giveaway

A special girl named Chelsea won the giveaway. She is suffering with Lyme Disease & loves makeup. I couldn't imagine a better winner. Thank you to all who entered.

The NYX Jumbo Eye Pencils are a cult classic in the world of online beauty. The oversized tubes are filled with a creamy oil and powder blend that can be used as a liner, a shadow or a base.
The shade I am reviewing is called 625 Sparkly Nude which is described as a "light gold with slight glitter". In my eyes, it looks more like a copper, almost rose gold shimmer with specks of reflective sparkles. The unique color is interesting to experiment with both on top of as well as underneath other gold tones.

Formula

The Jumbo Pencils are super creamy and blendable while keeping their pigmentation. On my oily skin, they are not the best option to use as a liner as they fade too quickly due to the texture. In general, this product is not known for it's staying power, and without a powder to set it or a primer they tend to move around and crease rather easily. I like to wear Sparkly Nude alone over a base as a pretty wash of color, or use it as the base and pack an eyeshadow of a similar color on top for a more vibrant effect.

Other

Another negative thing about this product besides the creasing is the packaging. The plastic cover is so fragile and cracks easily, which sometimes makes it slide down the tube and smudge the product inside the cap. For this reason, I prefer to "depot" my Jumbo Pencils which I share in a mini how-to below.

I learned this "depotting" trick years ago on the web to transfer the pencil into a more efficient container. If you prefer to use the product in a jar rather than in the tube, take a hair dryer and warm it up until the product begins to melt. It should all drip out in a smooth manner and will eventually form back into a solid, making it easy to dip in a finger or a brush.

Conclusion

The price to quality proportion of this pencil makes it so popular and well loved. With all the colors to choose from, there are tons of possible makeup combinations; which makes for an amazingly versatile product. As long as you apply a bit of primer underneath, they are definitely workable and worth a try.


What's your favorite shade of the NYX Jumbo Pencils?

Bath and Body Works Mini Candles in Leaves and Cider Lane / Sephora Cream Lip Stain in 07 Dark Berry / Payless Lower East Side Chelsea Flat in Cognac / Old Navy Scoop-Neck Softest Sweater in Graphite Heather / Old Navy Cross Body Purse

Each Autumn season I like to head to the mall at least once to pick up a some new pieces to add to my wardrobe. This year I scored some deals at a few of my favorite stores and wanted to share them so that you can hopefully take advantage of them as well.

First off, I found these simple cognac flats at Payless for $16.99 with a 20% off coupon on top of that. They fit pretty comfortably and show a little bit of edgy "toe cleavage". I love how they look styled with a pair of skinny jeans and an oversized top.

 Bath and Body Works is already clearing out their Fall collections to make way for the holidays, so most of those products are on sale now. I found two small candles for $2.50 each in the scents Cider Lane and the ever so popular Leaves. Both candles are really potent and smell so festive. If you can't find them in store, they are still available for 50% off on the website along with many others both permanent and limited edition.

Unfortunately at Old Navy, all the summer clothing was still filling the sales racks; so I didn't want to miss picking up my favorite sweater that comes out each year. It's a basic scoop neck that is so cozy and warm in the cold months. Near the back of the store in the clearance section, I found the brown purse for $12 and couldn't pass it up. The style reminded me of a Rebecca Minkoff cross body bag, and luckily for me this one costs about a tenth of the price.

Lastly, I went to Sephora looking for a dark Fall lip color and swatched a few that were comparable to what I had in mind. I ended up purchasing the Sephora brand lip stain in the color Dark Berry. So far I am loving it and there will be a review up soon in a separate post after I test it out a bit longer.


Have you found any good sales this Fall?

As a natural mousy, ash toned brunette, I have experimented with an endless amount of dyes to create a more vibrant and desirable hair color. For a few years I was an icy blonde with highlights, and then for a few more I become a rich brown beauty, a la Kim Kardashian. No matter what end of the spectrum I decide to fall on, I always go back to my favorite look, the foxy redhead.

My hair was not virgin before going red, so it's sometimes difficult to compare the expected outcome to what will show up on my head. My natural color is a medium brown that has ash/green undertones with golden highlights that is relatively easy to dye over. For reference, I've found that when dying over my new growth (roots) that the color ends up very similar to the hair swatches below. Also keep in mind that because of the trauma my hair has been through from coloring as well as an incident with an at home relaxer (read my story here), color tends to fade quicker on the damaged parts thus making my ends appear lighter. I recommend going to a professional if you are unsure of how dye will show up in your hair to prevent accidents and unwanted results.

For those of you with hair knowledge and some rubber gloves handy, here are some short reviews on at home red hair dyes I've tried. For all the single dyes, I used a 10 or 20 volume developer of the same brand. For the boxed kits, I used whatever was provided inside. The colors below are listed in order of when I applied them, with about an average of 3-4 months in between. The numbers in parenthesis are how I rated each dye on a scale from 1 worst to 5 best.

Garnier Nutrisse Ultra-Color in R3 Light Intense Auburn  (4/5)
This was the first red box dye I tried out at home. Since it was just the beginning of my red journey, a lot of the pigment did wash out within the first month. For a drugstore kit, I was really impressed with the vibrancy of the red. Unfortunately though, it did not apply evenly and the ends of my hair were about a shade lighter than the rest of my head.

John Frieda Precision Foam Colour in 4R Dark Red Brown  (2/5)
During the drugstore foam hair color craze, I decided to try this brand because of a coupon I had. I was not impressed with this dye at all as it didn't show up very well or look even. I feel like it would be best suitable for those with virgin hair or hair that has not been chemically dyed too often.

L'Oreal Excellence HiColor HiLights in Magenta  (5/5)
This color was a fun, mega bright red with pink undertones. The dye itself lifts so that natural brunettes like me can achieve a light shade of red without bleach. I definitely recommend this line if you are looking for a bold, unnatural red with a similar outcome to Manic Panic dyes.

L'Oreal Exellence HiColor in H11 Intense Red  (5/5)
For a more toned down, coppery look, I used this shade to blend my new growth with the still vibrant Magenta dye. The color showed up true even on top of the pink base, and gave me a natural redhead look.

Wella Color Charm in 5WV Cinnamon  (2/5)
I was unimpressed with this dye as it didn't show up well for me. The color appeared uneven and a bit dull. This was the first color I tried after my hair was damaged from a relaxer, so that might have affected how the dye took to my hair. Nonetheless, I wouldn't purchase this brand again.

Wella Color Charm in 8GR Copper Sun  (2/5)
I picked up this color to mix in with Cinnamon after I read that it would add a warm, golden glow to the hair. Overall, it did nothing for my hair and was a waste of money.

L'Oreal Excellence Browns Extreme in BR1 Dark Red Brown  (5/5)
This color is my all time favorite deep red hair dye. It is so rich and multidimensional while covering over any past dye still in the hair and matching new roots perfectly. When in doubt I always return to this color and it never leaves me disappointed.

Age Beautiful 4RM Anti-aging Hair Color in 4RM Dark Red Mahogany Brown  (4/5)
I found this new brand at Sally's during my last trip, and it is what is in my hair now. The color is very natural looking, and since fading has blended well with my roots. I will be trying out a few more shades from this brand when I am due for a fresh color.



Have you ever dyed your hair red?

Part Two

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Leave Brows to the Talented

As easy as it may seem to groom the eyebrows, it is actually more calculated and complex when done the 'proper' way. We've all been there ourselves or have seen a friend with over plucked, misshapen brows; and there really isn't anything less attractive. Doing your own brows incorrectly can not only throw off the balance of your face, but there is always the possibility that the hairs will not grow back.
If your brows are in need of some shaping, go to a salon to get them professionally waxed, threaded, or tweezed. An aesthetician can use tools to create an ideal shape and also will clean up the hairs so that they will look most flattering on your face. If you must tame them yourself in between visits, take a magnifying mirror to pluck noticeable strays from your below the brown bone or above the eye brow itself.


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Learn Techniques

Makeup always looks best when it is applied correctly or as intended. Taking the effort to learn how to sharpen your skills will make your time spent putting it on worthwhile. One of the best ways to visually figure out certain techniques is to watch videos, thousands of which can be find on Youtube. There are also makeup classes that will provide individualized routines for your specific makeup needs. It takes tons of practice to 'perfect' the art of makeup, so don't feel discouraged if it takes awhile. When in doubt, just keep the look simple.


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Find What Suits You

Beauty is all about breaking the rules, however if you want the most natural or best looking makeup for your face, then it's a good idea to discover what works for you and what doesn't. Elements such as hair color, skin tone, color, and type, eye color and shape, and bone structure all dictate what cosmetics would be most suitable for you. Emphasizing your best features is one of the simplest ways to use makeup to enhance your  natural beauty. Easy ways to find advice on this would be to research online, visit makeup counters, or read books on the subject.


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Know your Skin Type
Being aware of your skin type and it's tendencies is vital. Choosing makeup products that suit you will make your skin look better and also will allow the makeup to last longer as well.

Those with dry or aging skin should start off by exfoliating both the face and the lips. A rich moisturizer with an SPF should follow, along with a hydrating primer for an even canvas. Products with a dewy finish such as a luminizing liquid foundation, cream blush, or a satin finish lip color will all bring back a glow to the skin. Keep a water bottle at your side throughout the day to replenish your thirsty skin from the inside, out.

For oily skin, it's important to use toner right before applying a mattifying or oil free moisturizer to prevent natural oils from fading away makeup throughout the day. A primer for the face and eyes will provide a layer between the makeup and the skin to protect it even more. A natural or matte finish foundation is key, along with a layer of powder over the top to absorb any oil that may appear. A finishing spray is a great last step in the makeup routine to ensure the products will stay put for as long as possible.


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Have Fun
It is important to follow guide lines to ensure you look your most natural potential. However, the beauty of makeup is that it allows you to throw on a hot pink lipstick if you very well please, or rock a smokey eye in daylight just because you felt super edgy that morning. Makeup is an art, an expression that enhances confidence and gives us the power to change our appearance to almost anything we wish. Never be afraid to try different colors, textures, tones, and endless combinations of products to experiment with your look and enjoy your makeup collection.


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Go back to Part One!


What is your favorite makeup secret?

Duo chrome eye shadows are the artistic gem of the cosmetic world. When angled in different directions, the light will create a two toned, dynamic effect. The shift of the shadows look just stunning on the lid, especially when the shade is in contrast with the eye color. The uniqueness heightens the sense of quality, which is in favor of drugstore buyers wanting a high end look.

These type of eye shadows look best when applied wet, foiled with a mixing medium, or on top of a base. A clear mixing medium will create a bright, metallic look. Using a white base will enhance vibrancy, while a black one will bring out the blue or green tones of this shade.

The colors shown above include a depotted shadow from Too Faced called Label Whore, which is a bright, metallic brown to blue duo chrome shade. It is extremely pigmented with a soft texture that blends with ease. The MUA Trio Eyeshadow in Innocence has a red brown to green duo chrome color that is more subtle and sheer.

Each brand has a slightly different variation on this shade, some being a more teal green, some a light blue. Others have a reddish, wine colored reflect, while others are more brown. 

I've searched the depths of the internet to find all the possible dupes for this color. Let me know in the comments if you have any and I will add them to my list.

The discontinued shades can be found at random on eBay or other online shops. The limited edition shade from Maybelline came out in early Fall 2012 and can still be found in some stores.

Do you wear duo chrome eye shadow?

Trouser - mid-rise, relaxed through hip & thigh

The Rimmel Lasting Finish lipstick line by famous London supermodel Kate Moss is a collection of edgy shades that reflect the beauty's rock'n'roll style. The shade I picked up is #11 which is a deep, blood red with blue undertones. The coolness of the red gives it a very classic vibe and the shine enhances that sexy 'wet' look on the lips.

Formula

The texture is a bit sticky, however this is allows the color to stay on the lips making it "long wearing". The lipstick glides on easily and appears to be very pigmented with just one layer. The only negative about this rich color is that it also stains to a shade of  bright pink that is difficult to take off. Having applied it without a lip liner, I noticed some bleeding that even concealer couldn't properly tame.

The whole line of lipsticks are "infused" with an ingredient called 'Black Diamond' that reflects light and increases depth to inspire the confidence of the runway goddess herself. For a dark shade, I did find the shine to highlight my lips nicely and make them appear fuller than with other similar shades.


Other
The packaging is chic as expected with a matte black finish and Kate's lipstick signature on the cap. The bullet has a slight cherry vanilla scent that disappears after application.

Find

Kate's collection can be found at most drugstores that carry Rimmel, and also at Ulta.com. I found mine at Walgreens and I have seen it at my local CVS and Target as well. The average price ranges from $4.50-$5.50 depending on where you find it.

Conclusion
The #11 lipstick is a beautiful, saturated red color with shine that will enhance the look of your lips. With the affordable price tag, this shade is definitely worth giving a try if you don't mind a little mess.



Have you tried any shades from the Kate collection?

Autumn is my favorite time of year for fashion, makeup, and of course the traditions of the season. I took bits and pieces of a few different Fall tags floating around and created this one. Feel free to share it or tag others you'd like to see do it. I tag everyone!

Favorite Fall lip products?

Right now my most worn is the NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in San Paulo, which is my go-to muted red. I am also loving the Revlon Lip Butters in Berry Smoothie and Creme Brulee.

Favorite Fall nail polishes?

My top three would have to be Manicurist from Seville by OPI, Khloe Had a Little Lam Lam from the Kardashian Kolors by OPI, and Bahama Mama by Essie.

Favorite fall beverages?

I love to drink apple cider during this season, and also the pumpkin spice coffee from Dunkin Donuts, yummy!

Favorite Fall scents?

I have a 'delicious' cinnamon pumpkin candle burning right now which I actually picked up at the Dollar Tree (candles are so expensive!). I wait all year for other scents like apple pie in the oven and crunchy fallen leaves.

Favorite Fall fashion accessory?

Scarves are a staple for the cold New England weather and look cute with the long, cozy sweaters I like to wear.

Haunted house, haunted hay ride or haunted corn maze?

None of the above, I don't like to be scared!

Favorite Halloween movies?

My favorite to watch as a kid was Casper the Ghost and also the 'scary' Mary Kate and Ashley tapes.

Favorite candies to eat on Halloween?

I'm a total junk food lover but if I had to pick, my favorites for this time of year would be cherry Twizzlers, Reece's white chocolate peanut butter cups and Twix.

Favorite Fall memory?
It's so hard to pick just one! Filling up bags for the trick or treaters at my Grammy's house when I was younger was always a lot of fun, and those are the memories that I now cherish. I would hang out with her and snack (she always bought the best candy) while family visited, and as I got older I'd help pass out the candy to the neighborhood kids.

What are you dressing up as for Halloween?
I don't think I'll be dressing up this year, but I might be doing some fun makeup for the occasion.


This tag was so much fun to do! If you complete it yourself, send me the link and I'd love to read your answers.


What are your Fall favorites?

is the one I settled with. It's a retro style camera bag in a cognac colored leather with cream stitching. The interior is lined with a bright red velvet material that smells stuffy like an old bookstore. There is tons of space inside to use as storage for the camera as well as a few other things like memory cards, batteries, and accessories to keep everything in one place. 

The seller didn't know much about the bag, but he did tell me his estimation of how old it is. He believes it could have been made in the 1960's because when he found it it was full of old film dated from the 70's and 80's.
There is no branding or labels anywhere on the bag, nor can I find any helpful information about similar styles online. What I did find in my research was that it might be a bit older than what the seller believed. Some of the stitching and other details are similar to other camera cases I've seen dated from the 1940's and earlier. Nonetheless, the look of the bag is what caught my eye, and also the charming nostalgia of owning a part of a stylish photographer's history. 

The final bidding price was $26 for the bag and think it was worth it, especially for a unique, timeless piece that will hopefully last a good while. Since I can't get out to many antique or vintage shops often, I will continue to thrift online to search for more gems like this.

Do you shop on eBay?

What is your favorite autumn blush shade?