Posts Tagged ‘Sephora’

Your Makeup Wardrobe Must Have Piece #2 ~ the no color lipgloss

Dolce & Gabbana clear gloss

Dolce & Gabbana $31 @ Sephora

Your makeup wardrobe classic #2 ‘must have’ piece:  the no color lipgloss. There are clear ones and some with a bit of shimmer, both are great. (keep away from ones with glitter pieces, they’re not always flattering and not as versatile)  Quick Lesson:  shimmer=think delicate crushed pearls and it’s très chic, glitter=shiny confetti pieces)

The choice of glosses is endless…there are luxury brands and drugstore faves. Truthfully when worn, others will not be able to tell the difference between $$ or $ versions. It’s what works well for you and makes you feel good when you use it.

Why non colored gloss?

  • it works with everyone, outfit and occasion
  • no guessing on the shade
  • always pretty and polished
  • can be applied without a mirror if needed for a quick fix
  • it layers over all your other lipcolors to make ‘new’ lip looks
  • can make lips look fuller (not talking plumping) just a smoother texture
  • formulas may contain; SPF, moisturizers, plumpers, treatments, etc.
  • great for touch-ups before photos, gloss up before the BFF takes pics with her phone ; )
  • pairs well with minimal makeup looks

 

L'Oreal COLOUR RICHE® LE GLOSS

L’Oreal COLOUR RICHE® LE GLOSS under $10 @ Walmart Canada

 

From squeeze tubes to wands and brushes, the application type and texture is totally up to you. TIP: When layering gloss over lipstick from a squeeze tube, use a lip brush to gently swipe it over the lipstick so you don’t move the lipstick around underneath. If  your gloss has a brush/sponge tipped applicator, try taping it on the lips gently, again so you don’t disturb the color under it.

 

PS In my pro-makeup kit I have the Smashbox High Shine pearl -looks white in the tube but goes on clear with a touch of pearl. Works great on camera and for everyday.

Stay tuned for the next Makeup Wardrobe Classics item.

Ciao Bellas, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

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Skulls & Studs knucklebox clutch ~ my inspiration from Alexander McQueen

 

I love and work with makeup everyday but I also have a long time love for accessories.  I’ve been loving snakes, (not a fan of them in real life) skulls and pure Rock n’Roll glam for a very long time. When Alexander McQueen’s designs included skulls, I was hooked for sure. Let’s face it, most everyday gals don’t have the budget for some of these luxurious items. Use them to fire up your fashion inspirations instead.

My Clutch Inspiration from Alexander McQueen 

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What I found to channel my Rocker Chic’ness -pronounced sheek’ ness               This one was in-store for just $89.95 (they had a white and a gold one as well) couldn’t find this style through their online store but found these other ‘inspired’ versions of skull clutches instead.  You can put your fingers through it to hold it in your hand for the more dressed up/evening out idea or as my girlfriend tried it on with the chain as a small cross body bag, wearing jeans and a shirt and it was amazing!! With this good purchase, we headed to the Sephora so I could pick up some new sweet YSL lippies to stash in my new clutch. (I share those in another post)

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Ciao Bellas, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

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fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream ~ Review

 

 

Hello Gorgeous,

Last week I worked with a private client’s teen daughter and needed a gentle and lightweight moisturizer to address dehydration and for better makeup application when she wore it. While cruising the shelves at a Sephora, I came across the fresh Rose Hydrating Gel Cream.

FRESH Rose Hydrating Gel CreamFor a young teen with good skin, any skincare or makeup application should be kept minimal. I used this product as both her moisturizer and a prep for her makeup, taking advantage of the velvety texture of it to smoothly apply a sheer foundation.

What I thought: It smells delicate of rose. Looks rich and creamy, yet lightweight and velvety on the skin. I would suggest this to oily-combination skin types, skin types not requiring anti-aging, and when you just want something light in the summer. The brand claims it to “provide 24 hrs of significant moisture…”  (I don’t think any moisturizer feels like it’s working that long) Use 2x daily to see/feel best results. I liked the results as they met the requirements for my client.

 

 

Ciao Bellas, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

 

*No product was sent for trial nor was I asked to review it. I use Sephora professionally as just one location of many to discover and shop for brands/products for my clients so that I can meet their beauty needs.

 

 

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{Amazing Skin & Hair care items for year round help}

 

Hello Gorgeous,

Just about anything can set our skin and hair into a frenzy. From seasonal changes, travel and hormones to medications, our skin and hair may just need a little extra help from time to time. No need to change up what your using, just add a ‘booster’ to what you’re already using. Check out the video below and see some amazing items that can be used year round when your regular items aren’t enough and your skin and hair need some TLC.

 

Here is more info on each item shown and where to buy.

What beauty item(s) do you keep year round for that extra TLC?

Ciao Bellas, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

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Wish List~New Beauty Faves

 

Here are some new luscious online discoveries (plus some of my all time faves) that are absolutely “Want It,  Need It, Gotta Have It”  items just in time for your Holiday Wish List. I’ll be sharing them this morning on CTV Morning Live Ottawa…but if you are reading this, you have the first peek.

I’m a huge fan of online shopping, especially for beauty  products. You can almost shop the world and get global beauty delivered right to your door.

Laura Mercier Artist’s Palette $60CAD  “A palette of a dozen eye shadow colors, hand-selected by Laura Mercier, in shimmer and matte finishes”  I tried it out on a client recently and loved it so much for myself. I think it’s the best collection of elegant neutrals in great textures and it includes several matte shades that will have this collection working overtime for you. From work day to evenings out, you can mix and match as well as make some of the darker matte shades into eyeliners when you use a wet brush. This is a classic selection of shades and a palette that will be well used and loved.

 

BITE Beauty Bite Size Discovery Kit $29CAD “Bite is beauty for lips that’s good enough to eat. With highly pigmented, trend-forward color palettes, Bite’s hydrating formulas are infused with food-grade ingredients—so your lips feel as gorgeous as they look”  The colors in this discovery kit are super wearable for anyone, ranging in a nude, neutral daily wear shades to a party ready red, the texture is lovely and look how adorable these are. They’ll fit perfectly into any evening clutch, pocket or makeup bag.

 

Royal and Langnickel Makeup Brushes  (assorted prices, $US)  You just can’t have great makeup, you have to have great tools. Many of my go to brushes come from this manufacturer for both my pro kit and personal use.  They have amazing quality brushes and fab pricing (much better than your fave department store brand)  My personal faves are the Silk Pro  line as well as the new Revolution line created with Kevin James Bennett celebrity makeup artist. The prices are amazing however there is going to be some extra fees to get it to Canada. I still feel that I get more product and quality with my $ even shopping cross border.

 

 

Clarisonic Plus Face and Body Cleansing Brush $225US.  I L.O.V.E. my Clarisonic Mia facial cleansing brush, it does such an amazing  job on the look and feel of my skin. Better clean and better radiance with it.  Think it is time to indulge the rest of my skin and go for this dual version (separate brush heads for  face and body) Secret: Head to SpaBoutique (Canadian) and get it for $225 CAD plus they have additional offers so look for them before you place your order and get a great deal and it’s where I bought my first one.

 

 

 

Julep Nail Polishes (varied pricing, $US) “trend-setting toxin-free colors and products”  I’m just discovering these and  have to say what a great find, a superb quality nail polish with a great selection of shades to mix, match and play with. Plus they can be found in Sephora…you’ll also love that they are free of DBP, toluene, formaldehyde, and formaldehyde resin. 

 

 Ciao, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

*Online shopping tips: always check the FAQ’s page of the site to get your questions answered. Will there be an additional charges such as taxes or duties, return policy, special offers and of course any fine print so you are not surprised. If in doubt you can always contact their customer service.

 

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Lip Balms ~$plurge or $ave (Rodial & Sephora)

 

When the outside temperatures begin to dip one of the first places we feel it is on our lips, they start to dry out and get chapped from the cold outside and the heat turned on inside. They crave moisture!! Here are 2 products I found to hopefully indulge your lips.

 

 Rodial Glam Balm Lip ($25 CAD)

I recently tried this lip balm (and lots of other items from this brand) through a Rodial info session held at my local Murale location. The company rep.  John A. was in sharing knowledge as well as tips and techniques to really get the most out of your items. Which of course helped me to pick up a few items from the Dragon’s Blood collection, just in time for the upcoming change of season.

Rodial glam balm™ LIP is an intensive lip balm designed to hydrate, smooth and protect the lips. Shea Butter and Vitamin E soothe and soften the skin while Hyaluronic Filling Spheres and Rose Wax offer optimum hydration to plump up lips.”

This is a beautiful lip product and the price is great for a luxury skincare brand. It hugs the lips without being overly sticky or greasy and when it wears off, your lips feel truly moisturized. The only thing I’m not crazy about is it comes in a pot, I have a ‘thing’ about sticking my finger in lip products only because I don’t know what to do with the left-over on my finger…Don’t let that stop you from trying this balm as you can simply use it as a cuticle balm as well, no waste.  PS I had purchased the Glamtox Kit  kit so that I could try multiple items and the kit has a deluxe trial lip balm in a squeezy tube, they were thinking of me ; )

 

Sephora Super Nourishing Lip Balm ($6 CAD) limited edition 

I need to have lip balm in my professional makeup kit, however I don’t want to spend a lot on one, yet my demands are high; )  It needs to truly moisturize not just cover up dry lips, and the price has to be wallet friendly as I need to keep more than just one on hand. Can it be done? I came across this one and the price is definitely good with positive reviews. (I do not own this item)

This hydrating balm keeps your lips soft, comfortable, and looking great… Contains shea butter, beeswax, grapeseed oil, vitamin E, and meadowfoam seed oil. Formulated without: Parabens- Sulfates- Phthalates- GMOs-Triclosan

BEAUTY TIP: Apply lip balm to the lips at the the same step when you apply your facial moisturizer. When it’s time to add lip color simply blot extra off if you need to. Use as often as needed but for sure morning and night is great.

 

 

Ciao, Until Next Time

~Melody xo

 

 

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Bye Bye Grey Days!! Rita Hazan~Root Concealer

Hello Gorgeous Gals,

Let me confess…I colour my hair!!

What started years ago as a fun teenager thing, became a way to change my look through different life stages and has now become a necessity due to my refusal to accept Mother Nature’s gift of silver…. Silver as in grey hair!! I colour my hair regularly at a salon and due to my own laziness of not booking my next appointment ASAP (it’s now booked) I’ll be way overdue for a colour. Why yes, it could be done at home  (spent years doing that)  but I much prefer having someone else do it for me for now.  OK Back to the ROOTS, what’s a girl to do with them until my appointment?

It has to be covered up effortlessly. I have tried several types that were easy, but were wet and left the hair crunchy afterwards.  I wanted a dry version and found it in the Rita Hazan Root Concealer $24US  On a recent back to school shopping trip for the kids (we shopped on the USA side)  I just had to stop in at the local Sephora. This is when I saw the root concealer in stock and 5 shades available, I use the light brown. They had testers so I sprayed a bit on the back of the hand to see the shades. This is what I wanted and the best grey root fixer I have used so far! NOTE:  This product is created to cover grey roots, trying to use the blonde version to hide dark regrowth will leave you disappointed as that’s not what this is made for.

how to use: Dry and style your hair, then shake the can before you use it.  Spray roots from about 4-6 inches away in a light stream. (narrow nozzle so it doesn’t spray like a hair spray) If you are too close you may find it is wetter than you’d like. No worries, leave it to dry and know for next time to not spray so close. Root Concealer is water/ sweat-resistant and won’t stain the face, clothing or bed linens.

The price at $24US may not be easy for every ones wallet for a 1 oz. spray can, but it’s perfect for travel, especially if you are due for a colour during your vacation.  I do wish they made a larger version as well, but considering you only use on grey areas that show after styling and not the whole head, it balances out in the end. Plus it may save you $$ if it extends time between hair colour appointments.

**The only downside: I can’t get this item at my Canadian local Sephora and nor do they ship it to Canada, so disappointing.  Now I have to wait until my next cross border shopping trip to get more : (

Ciao Bellas

Until Next Time ~ Melody xo

 

 

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Back to School Beauty w/ ~Urban Decay, Seanol, Clean Well

 

Hello Gorgeous Gals,

It feels like all of  September is prep for the new school year.  With all the shopping,  you have to make sure that you are truly getting the best deals. Here are a few great products and brands that deliver on the results and give you more bang for your buck.

Seanol Canada brings in something new and unique to the beauty market and I’ve been lucky enough to have been sent a few items to try.  What makes Seanol special is that the products are made with ecklonia cava. “With what?” you ask.  Ecklonia Cava ~an extract of brown sea algae that is found off the coast of South Korea (over the past few years result oriented skincare from Korea is hitting North America by storm…um, the BB Cream craze)  Seanol is rich in sea polyphenols (antioxidants) that help to boost natural healing,  rejuvenate, protect and improve skin cellular activity.  

SEANOL®

Deep Clean~   It takes very little of it vs. other brands to get the job done.  A fluffy-foamy texture while cleansing, rinsed easily and didn’t leave my skin dry or tight feeling like others do.

Creme Cava ~ A light weight, non greasy moisturizer that absorbed quickly yet left my normal-dry skin feeling hydrated during the summer humidity.

Procava Shampoo and Conditioner ~ I’m not normally into 2 in 1 shampoo/conditioner items but was pleasantly surprised on this one.  I felt like my hair and scalp was clean, yet not weighed down with conditioner (I  do have to use a leave-in conditioner/detangler to comb through post shower) This is a great 1 bottle product for guys and to grab for that weekend away.

Seanol Toothpaste ~ Honestly, I was a bit nervous of using a toothpaste with brown algae extract and giving up my leading brand of sensitive teeth formula.  There is less minty/burning sensation when using it. But what was really amazing was how long my mouth felt clean afterwards. (Traditonal toothpaste give me the pasties within 30 minutes…so much for freshly brushed right?) As for the teeth sensitivity issues…none.

 

Urban Decay @ Sephora

 

Urban Decay is a brand of cosmetics with a cult following, you’ve heard of the Naked & Naked 2 eye palettes right? A brand with innovative formulas, great colour selections and daring shade names that really allow for one to be creative and express individuality.

NAKED SKIN -Weightless Ultra Definition Liquid Makeup   A peptide infused (good for skin protection and antiaging) Light diffusing (blurs out imperfections) and paraben free formula that will change the way you literally see your skin in the mirror and change your mind on wearing foundation. It feels like nothing is on and skin look natural and illuminated, like it’s been professionally retouched yet not covered in makeup!! With 18 shades, you are sure to meet your match for year round gorgeousness.

Apply it in under a minute with the Good Karma Optical Blurring Brush  (Love, love, did I say LOVE? this brush) One pump of Naked Skin on the back of your hand, dip the tips of the bristles into the foundation (DO NOT sweep up all the foundation at once, that whole pump can do an entire face for natural coverage, more product for more coverage) Dot that on the nose and now in small circles you will buff it from the centre, moving it around the face. Continue to dip the brush tip in to foundation and buffing till it’s gone…less than a minute to amazing looking skin!  Use a little more product to hide dark circles, blemishes and dark spots instead of reaching for the concealer.  I can also use this brush for cream blushes and finishing powders, making it a very versatile tool to own.

Playing up the lips is fun and one of the easiest ways to jump in and try trends. Super Saturated High Gloss Lip Color pairs amazing opaque pigmented shades with super high shine gloss and luxurious texture in a chubby pencil. Tip: blot color to reduce shine for a different finish. 8 shades to choose from or mix to make your own.

Lip Junkie Lipgloss  Love the look of lipgloss but  shy away because most are sticky and gooey? This formula goes on with a velvety feeling and with 14 amazing shades, including sheer, pretty neutrals, knockout brights, and a shimmering black (looks AMAZING over nude lipsticks) in a range of textures,  you are sure to find a new love for gloss.

 

Clean Well Hand Sanitizers

 

From the perspective of a makeup artist, there are times I am on location for a shoot and don’t always have the necessities I would like on hand i.e. soap and water. So I need to carry hand sanitizer to help me out. Traditional hand sanitzers are loaded with chemicals. I kill the germs, only to load up skin with chemicals!! Not anymore. CleanWell antibacterial cleansers and soaps harness the antiseptic power of thyme which nature has been using to fight off germs for millennia, making them perfect for my kit but for kids at school or people on the go.

-Antibacterial   -Kills germs    -Alcohol-free     - Gentle on sensitive skin    -Benzalkonium Chloride free    -Readily Biodegradable    -No harsh chemicals   -Fresh pleasant scent    - Kid safe formula  -Never tested on animals                   -No gloppy gels      -Won’t sting cuts   -4x more uses per oz. than  alcohol gels.     -Leaves skin soft

Ciao Bellas,

Until Next Time ~ Melody xo

 

*while companies and websites provide product info, the opinions expressed in this post are my own.

 

 

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Beauty Gifts (not just) for Mother’s Day

Hello Gorgeous Gals & Beauty Lovers,

Here are a few fantastic gift ideas for Mother’s Day. They’re also amazing for a bride-to-be, bridesmaids or any FAB woman you know, including yourself of course ; )          I found them all at Sephora.

Alterna Bamboo Color Care UV+ Fluid (75ml $27.50 CAD)

Love the idea of UVA/UVB protection for hair. This lightweight fluid helps to shield hair with a UVA/UVB barrier to fade-proof colour, while adding in vibrancy & multi-dimensional shine. As a gal who colours her hair, proctecting it from fading is important. Usage: Apply it alone or mix with your fave styling product on towel dryed hair or use after styling as a shine enhancer.

fresh  Rose Face Mask (100ml $63.00 CAD)

 Every once in awhile our facial skin needs extra hydration regardless of the season, age or skin type. This hydrating and toning treatment is made to rejuvenate and relax the skin with a much needed moisture infusion made up of crushed rose petals that just melt into the skin, among other benefits and ingredients. It looks like one of Granny’s homemade recipes. Usage: Just apply with your fingers onto cleansed skin, wait 5-10 minutes then rinse off. Seeing as it doesn’t dry, apply the mask then relax in a hot bath.

fresh SAKE BATH  (400ml $92.00  CAD)

Three words:…I want this!!!            ”Inspired by the Japanese Geisha bathing ritual of perfuming baths with real peaches, this Fresh Rice Sake Bath includes an infusion of exquisite fruit and 38% real sake for an unparalleled sensorial experience. This delicately foaming, therapeutic soak increases circulation and body temperature, inducing a purifying sweat to eliminate toxins. Sake also contains enzymes that hydrate and smooth the skin’s appearance. It is further enriched with pine extract, which promotes easy breathing and pure ginger to render muscles pliable and relaxed

      Caudalie Crushed Cabernet Scrub (150g $29.00CAD

Caudalie Foot Cream (75ml $15.00CAD)

While this signature, natural wine-inspired scrub is made for the body as it provides strong exfoliation, drains, softens and nourishes the skin while adding in intense hydration. It also works magic in smoothing feet.

Follow with the ultra-healing foot cream for pretty feet whenever you want. You’ll get a dozen (maybe more) foot scrubs out of this jar (only a little bit is needed) Usage: Soak feet if you can for 5-10 minutes. Apply a small amount of scrub into palms of hands, then massage onto feet. If the scrub feels ‘dry’, simply wet hands and continue massaging. Rinse, pat dry. Work in the foot cream.

Sephora Favourites Fragrance Samplers ($45.00CAD/set)

Fragrance is a wonderful and personal gift. Yet choosing for someone else can be a challenge. You can give the luxury of fragrance and still leave the choice up to her, just try either of these sets: The Fresh Florals or The Captivators. Both have five deluxe samples that give her enough to really discover a new scent and they make for great travel companions.

Happy Shopping!!!

Ciao Bellas,

Until Next Time, Melody xo

 

 

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{ Tangerine Tango…freshly squeezed & oh so juicy! Sephora+Pantone Universe }

Hello Gorgeous Gals & Beauty Lovers!

There is a hot new color taking over the Fashion and Beauty Industry. Say hello to the fresh and juicy Color of the Year: Tangerine Tango (PANTONE #17-1463)  What a happy shade, you can’t help but smile with it. Makes me think of a great sunset, some sweet candy or flowers blooming in the garden.

How can we work this ‘IT‘ color without looking like we tried to hard with the trend? One of the easiest and most fun ways is with makeup. What a great way to keep your makeup ‘look’ from becoming stale or dated and you don’t need to go for this exact shade, orange comes in a variety of tones from rust and coppers to soft peaches and corals. There’s one out there for you!

You can shop anywhere and with any brand to find your perfect shade, from nails, cheeks, to lips and eyes. In this post, I’ll share my pics below of the collection created by Sephora and Pantone. Visit Sephora + Pantone Universe to shop the entire collection and find additional Sephora items inspired by Tangerine Tango

My favorite must try pieces; eyeshadow quad, orange eyeliner, duo blush!  (*pricing seen is in Canadian $)  
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Brushes and Bags

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Eyeshadow Quad (I adore) & Eye Liner pencils

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Cheeks and Nails

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Flirty Lashes and Lash Curler

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Color of the Year - Sephora 6 pc Makeup Kit ($68 US/$82 CAD)

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Lovely Lip Glosses

Do you think you will try out a shade of orange this season?

Ciao Bellas,

Until Next Time ~ Melody xo

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