The Awkward Addict

BUY ALL THE MAKEUP!


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Quick MOTD

Today, my friends, I felt like a badass. A few factors contributed to this feeling. One, I wore my infamous pleather pants. Two, I’ve recently fallen even more in love with my forearm tattoo, so I made sure to wear a 3/4 length sleeve to show that puppy off today. Three, I recently had some darkness added to the underside of my blonde hair by a stylist friend. I like to think it represents my hidden, dark nature…or something. And four, I sported a bright, bold makeup look tonight. All those little tidbits combined really helped my inner tough girl blossom. This is all quite ironic because I am the least intimidating person I know. It’s all smoke and mirrors, but that can be our little secret.

I thought I’d share that bright makeup look tonight with a quick breakdown of the products used. Hope you enjoy and perhaps gain some inspiration from it yourself. Go out and be bold!

      

Face:

  • Stila Stay All Day 10-in-1 HD Illuminating Beauty Balm
  • Tarte Amazonian Clay Foundation in Fair Beige
  • Maybelline New York Master Conceal in Fair
  • Pixie Bronzer in Summerime
  • Tarte Blush in Classic
  • Cornstarch to set, as per usual

Eyes:

  • Lorac Pro Contour Palette (Yes, it’s for the face..but I’m a badass and I break the rules, remember?)
  • Ulta Gel Eyeliner in Aqua
  • Benefit Roller Lash
  • Anastasia Brow Wiz in Taupe

Lips:

  • Colourpop Lip Liner in I Heart This
  • Bite Beauty Lipstick in Palomino

See? I told you that was quick! The next time you do your makeup, have some fun with color! Whatever you choose to apply, just wear it confidently!

Stay weird!

-Rachel




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Spring 2015 Favorites

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there! I hope your day was full of relaxation, pampering, and zero whining in your household. My husband and child spoiled me today.

Honestly, I lucked out with the men in my life. I’ve got the sweetest kid and husband a girl could ask for.

Just take a look at my man! Ow ow!!

Anyway, you know what I love most about blogging? There are no rules. Even though I’ve missed a few monthly favorite blog posts, I can just lump the past season together if I feel like it! So, here we have it…my Spring 2015 Favorites.

1.  Tarte Skin Rejuvenating Maracuja Self Tanner and Face Towelettes ($39/$21)

 I may have waited too long in the day to take the pictures for this blog. Darn you, dim twilight lighting! Back to the product- I bought these with a gift card I received for my birthday. I have a few events coming up where I need to wear a dress, and I just wanted to attempt self-tanning in order to look a little less…stark white. I heard this product was good for extremely pale skin because it doesn’t add a drastic amount of color. Long story short, I love the results these give! Not only does it give the perfect amount of “tan,” but it leaves my skin feeling so smooth and moisturized. Also, it smells a bit like cinnamon..so I’ll take that. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of me before and after applying the product:
  
I feel like a bronzed princess. A freaking PRINCESS!

2. L’Oreal’s EverPure 8-in-1 Color Miracle Leave-In Spray ($7.99) 

 Have you ever used the infamous It’s A 10 Leave-In Conditioner? Well..this stuff is better. Also, it’s far less expensive. The claims on the back of the bottle are as follows:

  1. Protects color from fading
  2. Evens out hair’s texture
  3. Boosts radiance
  4. Helps shield against heat damage
  5. Quenches dry hair
  6. Detangles instantly
  7. Controls frizz and flyaways
  8. Silkens from root to tip

Yes. All of the above, yes.

3. L’Oreal’s Brow Stylist Plumper in shade “Light to Medium” ($8.99)

 Another L’Oreal product! This company has their act together. This next bit may sound familiar… Have you ever tried Benefit’s Gimme Brow? This product is better. Also, it’s far less expensive. Did you just experience déjà vu? Anyway, this gel will help you get your brows “on fleek.” I’m not sure what that means, but all the kids are saying it.

4. Mally “Get the Last Lash” Maximizing Mascara ($25)

   
Alright, I know what you’re thinking…Rachel has a new favorite mascara every month. You’re right. I do. But I’m going to make a strong claim in that, if I only had to buy one mascara for the rest of my life..it would be this one. I loved the original version of this mascara, but they have perfected it even further by adding the tiny, defining wand. It’s so useful/effective/cute!

5. It Cosmetics Naturally Pretty Celebration Palette ($42)

   I was given this palette for Christmas, and it unfortunately got put on the back burner for a bit. I recently took it out again in an attempt to use up my existing eyeshadow palettes. These shades are subtle but effectively give you such a nice and natural look. I love using the colors “Champagne” and “Wonderland” for an easy eye look and then adding a pop of color on the lips. These eye shadows won’t win any awards for being overly pigmented, but I’m just really enjoying the palette as of late.

6. Bare Minerals “Pop of Passion” Lip-Oil Balm ($16)

   
These lip balms are super moisturizing and also have decent color payoff! They also leave a stain on your lips once the balm has worn off. They are a super easy way to add a bit of color into your daily makeup routine without going overboard. Sorry, I know it’s hard to tell the actual colors of the swatches due to the rad, blue lighting. Super!

Aaaaaaaaaand, now on to a few lifestyle favorites!

 Look at the adorable watch my husband got me for my birthday! It’s my first big girl watch, and I love the silver/rose gold combo. Plus, being able to tell the time at any point in my day is a huge plus. I’m also loving the colorful, earthy bracelet I’m wearing. I bought it recently at a local boutique for around $20.
  

These protein bars are delicious, but probably not overly nutritious. Either way, I’m hooked. I’m all about a quick and easy breakfast while rushing to work in the morning.

 And finally, this show has my whole heart. My husband and I watched the entire first season in two nights and did not stop laughing the entire time! Holy crap, it’s hilarious. Like..on-the-same-level-as-Arrested-Development hilarious. Every other line is laugh out loud funny, and I’m picky when it comes to comedies. Do me a favor and check it out!

El fín! We’ve reached the end! Thanks for reading and have a great week!

Stay weird..

-Rachel

P.S.- I realized I never told you all about the unicorn-like experience I had after I got into a little fender bender earlier in the week. Actually, it was on my birthday. I was in the kindest accident ever recorded. Seriously, have the Guiness Book of World Records review this and I’m sure they’ll add it to the books. I was in start-and-stop traffic on my way to a training class for work, and I may have been attempting to get ready in the car. I know, stupid girl mistake. I was finishing up my mascara when I realized he car I front of me was at a standstill. I tried to hit the breaks, but couldn’t stop in time. His car was scratched and my front bumper was cracked.

 Boo. Also, my car is really dirty. Anyway, the man who’s car I hit was so kind to me as I was apologizing profusely. I texted him a few hours later because I still felt so guilty, and this little miracle occurred:

  


 This man is an angel and gave me so much hope for the human race! Anyway, I just wanted to share my little sad/happy story. Until next time, friends!


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Tartelette VS Too Faced Natural Matte: Battle of the Palettes!

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Oh, happy day!  The beauty world is embracing mattes!  I adore anything and everything matte.  Whether it be lipsticks, eyeshadows, or foundations, matte is always better in my book.  Lucky for me, Too Faced and Tarte have both come out with some stellar palettes these past few months!  In my opinion, matte shades tend to wear better throughout the day and are perfect for adding depth in eye looks.  As women get older, shimmer can cling to and accentuate wrinkles and fine lines.  Yet another reason why matte shadows look lovely and sophisticated on women of all ages.

So which brand takes home the prize of Best Matte Palette?  Let’s take a look at each product before making our final decision!

Tartelette Palette

$44.00

Tartelette Palette and Snow Pictures 002

First Row (L to R): Free Spirit, Force of Nature, Dreamer, Multi-Tasker Second Row: Caregiver, Natural Beauty, Best Friend, Bombshell Third Row: Super Mom, Wanderer, Power Player, Fashionista

First Row (L to R): Free Spirit, Force of Nature, Dreamer, Multi-Tasker Second Row: Careiver, Natural Beauty, Best Friend, Bombshell Third Row: Super Mom, Wanderer, Power Player, Fashionista

First Row (L to R): Free Spirit, Force of Nature, Dreamer, Multi-Tasker
Second Row: Careiver, Natural Beauty, Best Friend, Bombshell
Third Row: Super Mom, Wanderer, Power Player, Fashionista

Pros:

  • Twelve highly pigmented shades
  • Sturdy, compact case, which is great for travel
  • Palette is well-rounded (contains both a highlight and black/dark brown shade for a complete eye look)
  • Shades are visibly labelled (with cute feminine, empowering names)
  • Palette has a large, self-standing mirror
  • Shadows create very little fallout
  • Part of Tarte Cosmetics permanent collection

Cons:

  • Some shades are a bit streaky, which means you have to work a little harder to blend
  • Shades more on the “cool” spectrum


Too Faced Natural Matte Palette

$36.00

too faced 002

008

First Row (L to R): Heaven, Cashmere Bunny, Sexpresso Second Row: Lace Teddy, Strapless, Risque Third Row: Nudie, Honey Butter, Chocolate Cookie

First Row (L to R): Heaven, Cashmere Bunny, Sexpresso
Second Row: Lace Teddy, Strapless, Risque
Third Row: Nudie, Honey Butter, Chocolate Cookie

Pros:

  • Nine highly pigmented shades
  • Sturdy case for traveling
  • Shades visibly labeled (with sassy names!)
  • Contains “how to” guide for putting together eyeshadow looks
  • Shadows blend together beautifully

Cons:

  • Shades more on the “warm” spectrum
  • Some shades are powdery, which create fallout
  • Six of the shadows are quite small
  • Palette contains very small mirror
  • Palette does not contain a deep brown or black

So how do you choose?  Honestly, I love each of these palettes.  They both have fantastic qualities, but I think we have a clear leader here.

::Drumroll:::

And the winner is…..THE TARTELETTE PALETTE!

You just get more bang for your buck with this beauty.  You can create a wider range of looks with it, and the pros outweigh the cons by a long shot.

I hope you found this review helpful.  Have a great weekend, friends!

Stay weird!

-Rachel

P.S.- Thank God for my employee discount. 😉


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Too Faced Chocolate Bar Palette Tutorial

Oh loves, it’s been far too long!  If I go without blogging for more than a few days, I get kinda twitchy.  It feels good to be sitting down to write again.  This week has been insane.  For all who were wondering, I survived Black Friday.  Barely.  While I was getting ready this morning, I played around with the idea of putting some war paint beneath my eyes just to let everyone who crossed my path know that I meant business.  Luckily, I only ran into a few crabby customers, and the rest were quite pleasant.  There were far, far too many of them…but at least they were pleasant!  My shift ended with a lady backing into my car in the parking lot.  Fitting for the day, I’d say.

Anyway, I thought I’d show you the eye look I’ve been wearing pretty consistently lately.  Ever since I bought the Chocolate Bar Palette, I haven’t been able to put it down.  For one, it just smells too delicious NOT to use on a regular basis.  Again…Too Faced are geniuses when it comes to marketing products for women.  ::Applause::

Let’s do it!

Chocolate Palette 029First, I primed my face with Pur Mineral’s Miracle Mist.  I can’t get enough of this stuff.  I also primed my lids with Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion.

Chocolate Palette 001Chocolate Palette 031Alright, these pictures are WAY too big.  Sorry you’re getting an up close and personal view of my pores.  Anyway, the next step foundation followed by concealer.  I’ve been using this Cover Girl foundation lately, and I LOVE it.  Again, Cover Girl is the way to go when it comes to inexpensive, drugstore foundations.  The only problem is that I can’t find a shade pale enough for my ghostly white face (#palegirlproblems).  I used my Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer under my eyes and Pur’s Disappearing Act Concealer on my blemishes and discoloration.

Chocolate Palette 006Here’s the eye look halfway done.  Oh, look at my poor, tired, got up at 3:30-to-be-at-work eyes.  ::sigh::  Anyway, keep reading for the breakdown of shadows used.

"White Chocolate" was used on the brow bone.

“White Chocolate” was used on the brow bone.

"Creme Brulee" and "Champagne Truffle" were layered the lids.

“Creme Brulee” and “Champagne Truffle” were layered the lids.

You can’t tell, but I’m doing “rawk” fingers here.

"Milk Chocolate" was blended through the crease and applied on the lower lash line.

“Milk Chocolate” was blended through the crease and applied on the lower lash line.

Lorac's Front of the Line Liquid Liner in "black"; Urban Decay's Perversion Mascara; Anastasia Brow Wiz in "Taupe"

Lorac’s Front of the Line Liquid Liner in “Black”; Urban Decay’s Perversion Mascara; Anastasia Brow Wiz in “Taupe”

These products were used to finish up the eyes.  Have a looks-y.

Chocolate Palette 007Finally, I applied some blush and added a neutral lip to complete the look.

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in "Exposed."

Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in “Exposed.”  Applied to lower cheekbones and temples.

NYX Waterproof Lip Liner in "Nude." Lorac Lip Gloss in "English Rose."

NYX Waterproof Lip Liner in “Nude.” Lorac Lip Gloss in “English Rose.”

Chocolate Palette 016Chocolate Palette 019Chocolate Palette 020And there we have it!  Now to wash this off and get some much-needed rest.  Enjoy your evenings, Awkward Annies!

Stay Weird!

-Rachel

P.S.- I’ve been nominated for the Liebster Award by two lovely bloggers.  That post coming soon and thanks for the nomination!


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Christmas Gift Guide: The Lucky 13

Well, here we are.  Another holiday season is upon us.  Seriously though..the older I get, the faster the time seems to go.  It’s like some sort of voodoo magic.  I would bet (a very small amount of) money that the earth is turning faster these days.  Anyway, since I work in Corporate Makeup World Land, I figured I might be of some service in helping you find the perfect gift for the lady or friend in your life.  Shoot, I would love to receive any (or all) of these items I’m about to show you!  I’ll let you in on a little fact about myself.  I love gifts.  I love giving them and I quite like receiving them.  Truthfully, there is nothing like giving someone a present that you know they will use and love, then seeing the excited expression on their face when they open it.  ::sigh::  It’s just so rewarding.  The upcoming list will also include links that you can click on.  These will take you to my Amazon Affiliate site where you can purchase the products online.  You are in no way obligated to do so, but it would definitely help me out.  Also, what’s more practical than online shopping?  Probably a lot of things, but it’s high on the list.  I’ve left you hanging long enough.  Here we go!

1. Tarte “Petite Treats” Advent Calendar

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This is a gift that keeps on giving during the 12 days before Christmas.  It includes 12 deluxe-sized Tarte products.  So fun!  Plus, the packaging is adorable.

2. Tarte Pin Up Girl Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush Palette

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For the makeup fanatics out there, this palette is a definite must-have.  These blushes are fantastic “every day” colors, and they last all day.  Blush palettes are hard to find in general, but ready-made blush palettes of this quality are almost non-existent.  It’s limited edition, so snatch it up while it lasts!

3. Pur Minerals Skin Care Starter Kit

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This skin care line is amazing.  It’s extremely gentle on the skin, but packs a major punch.  The set includes their hydrating/setting mist, cleanser, oil-free intensive moisturizer, and detoxifying facial masque.  It’s a great way to try out the line without spending major cash.

4. Philosophy “Holiday Cookbook” Recipe-Inspired Shampoo, Shower Gel, & Bubble Bath Set

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First, these smell amazing.  Second, you can literally use this product for cleaning any part of your body, including hair.  I probably didn’t need to explain all that since it’s included in the title of the product.  Psh!  Ah well…  It also creates a fantastic bubble bath, and the scent stays on your skin for hours.

5.Sigma F80 Flat Top Kabuki Brush

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This is the face brush to end all face brushes.  It applies foundation like a dream.  If you can afford a Sigma set, go for it.  But if you can only manage one brush, this is the one to get.  It’s highly regarded in the makeup world, and she will love it!

6. Real Techniques “Core Collection” Brush Set

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Now, if you’re looking for a makeup brush set that won’t break the bank…this is the one to buy.  The quality is great, and you can’t beat the price!

6. Dolce & Gabbana “Light Blue” Perfume

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This perfume is light and lovely.  The notes are as follows: Sicilian Citron, Bluebell, Granny Smith Apple, Jasmine Sambac, Bamboo, White Rose, Cedarwood, Amber, Musk.  Honestly, I haven’t met too many women who do not love this scent.  I don’t own it personally, but I give myself a little spritz with the tester at work just about every shift.

7. Bath & Body Works Warm Vanilla Sugar Body Lotion

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You know how some scents bring you back to specific memories?  This one reminds me of my first few dates with my husband.  It was my go-to lotion at the time, and it gives me instant warm fuzzies.  Even if you don’t have any nostalgic attachment to it, the scent amazingly light and happy.  Yes, happy.

8. Hot Tools 1″ Titanium Straightening Iron

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Hot Tools is a great middle-of-the-road brand.  It’s not as expensive as Babyliss or Chi, but their quality is fantastic.  The titanium coating is gentle on the hair, and the 1″ size is perfect for straightening hair or creating a flat iron curl.  Definitely a “winner” in my book.

9. The Balm “Nude ‘Tude” Eyeshadow Palette

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This palette has amazing pigmentation and is half the price of any full size Urban Decay Naked Palette.  Don’t get me wrong, I love my Naked Palettes, but this is a fantastic alternative.  It makes a great addition to any makeup lover’s collection.

——————–

Let’s finish up the list with some quick lifestyle gift ideas…

10. Aladdin “Blank Canvas” 16 oz. Mug

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My husband got me one of these last year for Christmas.  I am a coffee fanatic, and I use mine almost daily.  I especially love it because you can create your own inserts by using their website, which allows you to update it throughout the year.  Mine currently has a picture of my dog in it.  Because I’m that person.  At least I admit it..

11. Overdoor/Wall Jewelry Organizer

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This is a useful, decorative gift for any woman that loves to show off accessorize.  It hangs securely over a door and displays all your jewelry at once for easy access.  So practical!

12. Chevron Infinity Scarf 2-Pack

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Infinity scarves and chevron print?  Yes on both accounts.  Plus, you can’t beat this price!  These come in all sorts of shades and colors.  Click the link for more detail.  This would be a great stocking stuffer as well!

13. FitBit Flex Wireless Activity Plus Sleep Wristband

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This product intrigues me.  Here’s what it claims to do:

  • Tracks steps, distance, calories burned and active minutes
  • Monitor how long and well you sleep
  • Wakes you (and not your partner) with a silent wake alarm
  • LED lights show how your day is stacking up against your goal
  • Slim, comfortable and easy to wear (sold with both large and small wristbands included)
  • Includes small and large wristbands

I’m totally curious about this and would love to try it.  I’m sure your giftee would feel the same!

I hope I’ve at least given you some inspiration when it comes to Christmas shopping this year!  I included gifts in the high and low price range to fit into just about any budget.  Let me know what items are on your wish list!

Stay weird!

-Rachel


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October 2014 Favorites

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 029Well, it’s officially November, which means it’s time to reflect back on all the products that got me through October.  The majority of them are new to me, which is exciting because it’s always fun to fall in love with something you’ve never tried before!  Let’s just get into it.

1. Freeman Charcoal & Black Sugar Facial Polishing Mask ($3.99)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 047This mask makes my face feel so incredibly soft.  I keep in in the shower and use it about 2-3 times a week.  When applied, it creates a “warming” feeling on my skin that I really enjoy.  You’re supposed to leave it on for a minute or so, and then massage it into your skin.  The “sugar” dissolves, leaving your face feeling fresh and smooth.  Definitely a “win” in my book.

2. Pur “Hydrate and Set” Miracle Mist ($19.00)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 045I freaking love this stuff.  I use it before and after I apply my makeup…and at night…and when I want to give my face a little pick-me-up.  It hydrates my clean skin and helps my makeup to look natural while keeping it in place.  It also smells like citrus, which is quite enjoyable.  I’ve gone through far too much of it already, yikes!

3. Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel ($14.00)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 046My skin has reverted back to its 14-year-old state again, in the sense that it won’t stop breaking out.  Every time I see the light at the end of the tunnel with my blemishes, new ones pop up!  I mean, come on!  I’m 29-years-old and I thought my skin nightmares were finally over!  Anyway, a coworker told me about this face wash, and I’m really glad she did.  It has definitely calmed my face down quite a bit.  The only downsides for me are the scent (not awful, but not super pleasant) and the fact that it does not foam.  I don’t know why, but non-foaming cleansers weird me out.  I can definitely overlook those little issues due to the fact that I’m seeing major improvement in my skin.  I’ll keep you all updated on my journey with this product, but as of right now it’s a favorite.

4. Lorac Pro Palette ($42.00)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 052This palette is obviously well-loved.  And yes, that’s duct tape on the mirror because I broke it shortly after I bought it.  At least it’s zebra print, right?  Anyway, I’ve been creating so many fun fall looks with this baby lately.  You can tell what my favorite colors are because they are just about gone.  Boo!

5. Pur Disappearing Act 4-in-1 Correcting Concealer ($22.00)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 048This little number is “pure” magic.  I made another pun!  I’m on a roll lately….  Anyway, while I still use my Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer under my eyes, I use this product for covering up my blemishes.  It’s 100% full coverage and it doesn’t take much to make my flaws disappear.  I was given this by a friend who is a Pur representative.  It’s in the color “porcelain” which is no longer available.  The next lightest shade is a tiny bit too dark for me, so I’m going to get all the use out of this that I can.

6. Anastasia Brow Wiz ($21.00)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 044I’ve gone through so many brow products this past year, and I’ve finally found my favorite.  This is in the color “taupe” and it’s a perfect match for my brows.  It’s dual-ended, with one side being the product and the other a spooly for combing through your brows.  I love it because the tip you draw with is so fine and small that you can use it to create realistic looking hairs.  It’s brought my brow game up to a whole new level.  Score!

7. Physician’s Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum in “Brown” ($10.99)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 043 This liner is a twofer.  It creates an opaque line and also contains a lash growing serum!  I don’t use it every day, so I haven’t been able to tell a difference in my lashes as of yet, but I will keep you updated if I see an improvement.  I love the brown color for my fall eye looks.  It’s softer than black, yet still dark enough to make a statement.

8. Tarte Blush in “Exposed.” (Full Size is $26.00)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 040This blush has been a constant during the month of October.  It’s neutral/mauve tone has been perfect for my fall eye looks.  Love!

9. Lipstick Queen Sinner Lipstick in “Pinky-Nude” ($22.00)

October Favorites Elsa Tutorial 038::sigh::….Notice anything about this lipstick?  I *might* have put the cap on without winding the lipstick down all the way.  The top was smashed.  I beat myself up over this for a few days and am still in mourning over its current state.  But it’s still a beautiful shade and I have been using it almost daily.

We’ve reached the end of my monthly favorites!  I didn’t include any lifestyle favs this time around, because I honestly haven’t had much extra time lately.  The holidays have hit the retail world a little early this year, and the stress of my job has consumed my life.  There’s been little time to think and do much else lately.  Be expecting another “Retail Hell” post in the near future.

I hope you all had a great October and a Happy Halloween!

Stay Weird!

-Rachel


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The first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem..

I got more lipsticks.  Because I obviously didn’t have enough already.  If you’ve seen my lip product collection, you might actually admit me to an addiction treatment facility.  Before you start doing your research and dialing numbers, I have to let you know that both of these products were free.  The first one I got through point redemption at Ulta, and the second I received as a gift.  Want to see them?  Of course you do.  I can tell we’re kindred spirits.

1. Tarte Kiss & Belle Deluxe LipSurgence Lip Set

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This set includes 4 deluxe LipSurgence lip tints: dainty (pink), innocent (warm nude), dreamy (cool raspberry), alluring (mauve); 2 deluxe LipSurgence matte lip tints: eternal (pinky nude), fancy (plum berry); and 2 deluxe LipSurgence lip glosses: kiss (light pink), belle (raspberry).

*Products and swatches in same order* From bottom to top: eternal, dreamy, kiss, alluring, innocent, belle, dainty, fancy.

*Products and swatches in same order*
From bottom to top: eternal, dreamy, kiss, alluring, innocent, belle, dainty, fancy.

*Products and swatches in same order* From bottom to top: eternal, dreamy, kiss, alluring, innocent, belle, dainty, fancy.

*Products and swatches in same order*
From bottom to top: eternal, dreamy, kiss, alluring, innocent, belle, dainty, fancy.

This set is adorable.  I love the packaging and there is not a single color that I wouldn’t wear.  The top shade, fancy, is an especially fun color to wear with a neutral eye.  The samples are definitely decent-sized, so I know I’ll get a good amount of use out of them.  Many of the shades also leave a stain on your lips as well.  Here is my arm after I tried wiping off the swatches:

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As you can see, they basically all left pigment behind.  My only gripe is with the color “kiss.”  It’s the pink gloss, and it contains quite a bit of golden glitter.  The glitter is on the chunky side, and does not like to stay where it’s placed.  You know what they say about glitter….  It’s the herpes of arts & crafts (and makeup).  Once it’s on you, it never goes away.  If you’re reading this, Grandma, I’m sorry about that last bit…  Alright, so would I recommend this product?  100%!  You can pick it up at Ulta or online here.  It retails for $34.  Quite the deal for this gem!

2. Lipstick Queen Sinner Lipstick in “Pinky Nude”

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You know when you lay eyes on that perfect, “everyday” lipstick shade and you hear an angel chorus as you gaze upon it?  No?  That doesn’t happen to everyone?  Anyway, this lipstick is my new baby.  Even though I didn’t naturally give birth to it, I will raise it as my own and protect it like only a mother can.  Too much?  I’m getting a little out of control.  But yes, it’s that perfect pink-neutral shade that looks especially nice against my ghost, white skin.  It also smells like vanilla.  Yum!  You can purchase it at Ulta or online here for $22.

Thanks for reading and stay weird!

-Rachel


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Tarte “Chic to Cheek” Deluxe Amazonian Clay Blush Set

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I have been on a crazy blush kick as of late, and this beautiful set may have curbed my appetite for the time being. I love the shades and the fact that they’re deluxe samples of colors already existing in the Tarte line. It’s a good way to sample their blushes without having to purchase the full sizes. You can purchase this set for only $35 at your nearest Ulta.

1. Amour

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2. Classic

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3. Prim

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4. Daydream

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The pictures speak for themselves. Perfect colors for every season and great pigmentation. Sorry this post is lacking in the humor department, but I was excited to show these to you!

Stay weird!

-Rachel


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September 2014 Favorites

Let me just start by saying how happy I am that I have the day off tomorrow.  We have a “big wig” coming in, which caused everyone to be in quite the tizzy trying getting the store picture perfect for the visit.  Seven hours of running around like a chicken with my head cut off, and there was still more to do.  It didn’t help that I knocked over an entire display of nail polish, shattering one all over the floor.  Tip: If you pour sugar over spilled nail polish, it makes it much easier to clean up.  You know…if you ever randomly need that little life hack.  But yes, I’m so looking forward to kicking back tomorrow and enjoying my freshly shampooed carpets!  Oh, you read that right!  We completely cleaned all of the floors in the house tonight.  Isn’t that exciting!  Isn’t it?  Guys….?  You know you’re getting older when a clean house just does it for you.  Anyway, on to the real content..

Whew, GIRL!  This month has flown by!  It’s been a month of old reliables and new treasures.  I’m still not completely sure if this is something people find interesting or not, but I enjoy reading what other people are using and loving in the beauty world.  It gives me ideas on what to try in the upcoming season.  Read on to see some of my makeup, hair, and lifestyle favorites of the last few weeks.

1. Covergirl 3-in-1 Stay Fabulous foundation.

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Mine is obviously very loved.  I keep trying out new foundations, but I always go back to this one.  It stays in place all day and keeps my oil in check.  Also, it’s a medium to full coverage, which is right up my alley.  Way to step up your game, Covergirl!  So many people have been buzzing about it lately, including my favorite YouTube Vlogger, Sharon Farrell.  Check out her video on it here:

2. Pssssst! Dry Shampoo

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Not only is this product fun to say (imagine explaining the name to customers), but it works better than all of the high-end salon brands I’ve tried.  I use this product every other day in between washes.  It spruces up my hair and gets rid of the extra oil.  PLUS, it’s been around since the 70’s!  Any product that’s been around for decades must have gotten something right..

3. Queen Helene’s Grape Seed Extract Peel Off Masque

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I’m not going to lie…the reason I love this product so much is because I really enjoy peeling things.  I pretend I’m a snake shedding off a layer of skin on my face.  It freaks my husband and child out, which is a total bonus.  It does make my skin feel nice and soft after, so I suppose that’s another upside.

4. Loreal Revitalift Triple Power Day Cream and Sunscreen

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Ugh, that glare!  I really am a crappy photographer.  You’ll all just have to get used to that fact.  Anyway, this lotion is fantastic.  It’s got an SPF of 30, it doesn’t over-moisturize, and it smells amazing.  All good things.

5. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser

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I’ve probably repurchased this product a dozen times.  It conceals my dark circles with one swipe, and it doesn’t settle into the lines around my eyes.  It’s a thin concealer, but it has such great coverage.  How do you do it, Maybelline?  Sorcery?

6. L’Oreal Voluminous Butterfly Mascara and Tarte Lights, Camera, Flashes Mascara

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I’ve already talked about how much I love the Tarte mascara, but I don’t always want to pay the high cost for it.  A great drugstore dupe is L’Oreal’s Butterfly mascara.  It has just as much impact at half the price.  Either way, they’re both the bees knees.

7. L’Oreal EverCreme Nourishing Shampoo & Conditioner

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Wow, these pictures keep getting worse…  Anyway, these products have also been repurchased many times.  They’re sulfate free, which is hard to find in the drugstore section.  They give me just the right amount of moisture without making my hair oily.  Also, they smell like vanilla.  Yum!

8. Benefit Foamingly Clean Facial Cleanser

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I just love this cleanser.  I had gotten what I thought was a dupe for it in this past month’s Ipsy bag, but after some use it just didn’t compare with the original.  This product makes my skin feel so amazingly clean.  What more could you ask for in a cleanser?

9. Coldstone Sweet Cream Coffee Creamer and Archer Farms Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee K-Pods

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Mornings are hard.  Like, really hard.  These friends help me get through the most wretched part of the day.  I’d even thank them from stage if I ever won an Oscar.  They mean that much to me.

10. Forever 21 bracelet

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This little guy makes even the dullest work outfit feel snazzy.  I’ve been wearing it non-stop this month.

11. Nellie

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Meet Nellie, my cat.  This picture doesn’t do her justice.  She just may be the fattest, most cuddly cat in the world.  She’s my favorite all the time, but I figured I’d give her a little cameo for this month.  Isn’t she precious?  The answer is “yes.”

That’s all for this month!  I already know I left a few things out, but overall this was a pretty good compilation of what my go-to’s have been lately.  I hope you all have a lovely rest of the week, and I should be back in a day or so with another review.  Lucky you!

Stay weird!

-Rachel


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Tarte “Exposed” 4-Piece Color Collection

I am exhausted.  ::YAWN::  It’s been quite the busy weekend, but I will fight away slumber until I tell you about my exciting new Tarte buy.  I know, I know…another purchase?  But remember that Napoleon blush that didn’t work for me?  Well, I exchanged it for this little number..exposed11

It’s the Tarte “Exposed” 4 piece collection, which contains:

  • A full size LipSurgence lip gloss
  • A full size LipSurgence power pigment
  • A full size 12-hour cheek tint
  • And a deluxe Amazonian clay 12-hour blush

I had yet to try a Tarte lip or cheek product until now, and I’ve definitely been missing out.  I’ve been drawn to this collection for weeks now, because I’m a sucker for good neutrals.  These shades just do it for me.  The only thing I’m not sold on is the cheek tint.  I’ve never been one for cream blushes, though.  Don’t worry, I won’t turn my nose up at it just yet.  If my opinion on it changes, you’ll be the first to know.

Swatchy-swatch time!!

exposed1exposed7Side note:  Take a look at my bad @** scar.  I got it trying to save an infant from a pack of wild timber wolves.  Either that, or I burned it on an oven.  I can’t really remember..

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So lovely.  So neutral.  So safe.  AND I LOVE THEM!  The blush is in first place for me at the moment.  The runner-up being the lip pencil.  You can purchase this cute little quadruplet at Ulta for $34 (an $87 value  ::GASP::), or just click the link: http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod11201057&skuId=2277129&_requestid=808907

You’re welcome.

Want to see some of these in action?  I used the clay blush and both lip products this afternoon.  Have a looks-y.

exposed9And since it is Selfie Sunday today, here’s another one for good measure..

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Stay weird!

-Rachel