Ipsy Glam Bag | September 2016

Welp people, this is my last Ipsy Glam Bag. I've been thinking about cancelling my subscription, even though there have been many great bags recently, I just wasn't loving or needing all of the samples I received. Plus, I want to scope out some other beauty bags, and heck - I want to save $10 a month while I decide what's next for me. I will still be receiving the Play! by Sephora subscription, so I'll continue to post about that each month (I'm liking it more than Ipsy, which was just another reason I decided to cancel).

Without further ado... my last Ipsy Glam Bag...

• Dr.G Daily Safe BB in Fair - This is a Korean BB cream that claims to provide coverage, smooth, hydrate and protect skin from the sun.The grammar freak in me can't stand that they spelled "sensitive" stupidly on top. I'm not a big BB cream fan, to be honest, and most don't actually match my skin tone, but we'll see how this performs.

• Avene Hydrating Serum - This serum says it provides moisture for a full 24 hours, it feels like a primer and relieves tightness and irritation. Avene is a wildly popular French brand and I'm looking forward to trying this out since my skin has been on the dry side lately. 
• Pixi Matteluster Lipstick in Rose Naturelle - This matte lipstick is formulated with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and Vitamins C and E for a smoothing sensation. The color is gorgeous and would look good on virtually anyone.

• Living Proof Perfect Hair Day - This product does five things: smooths, conditions, volumizes, strengthens, and polishes hair. I have a few of samples of this stuff and it's not bad. It does weigh my hair down a little bit, but it definitely keeps me frizz-free and conditioned, but I wouldn't say it's super volumizing. Overall though, it's a good product to get your hands on.

• It Cosmetics Superhero Mascara in Super Black - A mascara made with peptides and proteins for a punch of volume and length. I've never tried anything from It Cosmetics, but I'm looking forward to putting this to the test!

I'm not gonna lie... I think this month's bag is one of the weakest Ipsy bags I've ever received. It made parting ways that much easier. Ipsy has been good to me, but it's time to move on. Maybe I'll be back, maybe I won't. Only time will tell. 

What are your thoughts on Ipsy? Do you think it's worth $10/month? Let me know in the comments. 

June Empties | #27

I feel quite accomplished. This month I used up a bunch of stuff - a lot of it being things like skincare of which I'm trying to work through my backstock of products. But doesn't it just feel good to clean house a bit and use up what you've spent your hard earned money on? I sure think so. Here's my two cents on what I've used up, whether it's worth a repurchase and whether or not I think you should give these things a go.

• Rodan & Fields Overnight Restorative Cream and Triple Defense Treatment (would repurchase) - I was sent these to review ages ago and only now used them up. I thought they were nice moisturizers (one for use in the morning, one at night) but they are crazy expensive and I just don't really like to purchase pyramid scheme beauty products, even if they're really good. I don't want to have to go through some sales rep whenever I run out of moisturizer. See full review here.

• ClariSEA Instant Glow Powder Exfoliant (would not repurchase) - The ingredients aren't listed on here, but I'm fairly positive this was just pink sea salt. You mix it in with any cleanser to make it an exfoliator. It was fine, but I could literally just buy thick sea salt for way cheaper. I don't really enjoy using salt as an exfoliator either as it burns if you have any slight imperfection. 

• Ole Henriksen Invigorating Night Treatment (would not repurchase) - I can't say I saw any miracles happen on my skin from this treatment. It smelled like vinegar and left my face feeling a teeny bit sticky. I used it up, but I wouldn't shell out the cash for a full size of this. 

• Cotton Labo Organic Cotton Puffs (would not repurchase) - I got a two pack of these cotton puffs on Amazon, hoping they'd be like the Shiseido cotton rounds, but unfortunately they aren't. They are pretty flimsy and not worth your money.

• Noxzema Eyebrow Razor (would repurchase) - I use these little buggers to keep me unibrow and peach fuzz free. Getting rid of those little hairs does wonders for how your makeup applies and looks. These things are sharp, definitely be careful when you're using them. I've been known to knick myself.

• Starskin Calming Bio-Cellulose Second Skin Facial Mask (would not repurchase) - I've used other Starskin masks and really enjoyed them, but the consistency of the actual sheet this mask came on was so brittle I couldn't get it to sit properly on my skin so I didn't use it for the recommended amount of time. Total bummer! See Starskin review here. 

• Spongeables Pedi-Scrub Infused Foot Buffer in Lavender (would repurchase) - I love these things. They're double-sided sponges, one side is scrubby and the other is a sponge with soap and scent infused in to it. They clean your feet and make them feel fresh and you don't have to use your normal body loofah to do it (gross). I got months of use out of this, far more than the advertised "30 uses" per sponge (although I probably only used it about 3 times a week on average).

• Nexxus Dualiste Conditioner (would repurchase) - This conditioner is meant for people with colored hair, but I got it on mega-clearance so I bought it just because. It's actually really nice whether or not your hair is color-treated because it's very hydrating and makes your hair quite soft. I'm not sure if they make this any more, but if you see it, it's worth a shot to try!

• Proganix Quench Conditioner (would repurchase) - Another great conditioner. It smells amazing and made my hair nice and soft. See full review here.

• Insta Natural Argan Oil Hair Mask (would repurchase) - I was sent this ages ago to review and I have to say I really liked it. It has a nice smell, kind of like Juicy Fruit gum, weirdly enough.... but it was nourishing and made my hair feel soft and hydrated. See full review here.

• MEMEBOX I'm Dual Mascara (would not repurchase) - This mascara is double-sided, as the name suggests, one side having a bigger brush for top lashes and the other a smaller brush for bottom lashes. I loved the bottom lash mascara, but the stuff for top lashes just didn't give me enough volume or length. It was way too natural for me. See full review here. 

• Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara (would repurchase) - I use this clear mascara as an eyebrow gel and it works great. It's not sticky or clumpy or too heavy, it's perfect and it's also way cheaper than most eyebrow gels. 

• Kat Von D Sinner Liner in Trooper (would not repurchase) - I am not a fan of the Kat Von D eyeliner pens and this was no exception. They're too shiny for me, I prefer a matte black eyeliner, and they just don't give me the oomph I'm looking for. I think I'm the only person on the planet who isn't in to these eyeliner pens... 

• Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer in Nude (would repurchase) - I probably got this little sample in a Sephora order, and didn't think much of it, but it turns out I loved this! It actually gave a decent amount of coverage. I liked it so much I've been really thinking about buying a full size to wear during laid back summer days. This color was perfect for my pale skin tone, too.

• Revo Lip Balm (would not repurchase) - There was nothing inherently wrong with this lip balm, but it just didn't do much for me. It didn't feel extra hydrating, it just sort of sat there. I used it up, but I wouldn't buy it again.

• Ulta Cream Eye Shadow in Shimmering Topaz (would repurchase) - No one really talks about these eye shadows but they're completely underrated. They pack a punch in the pigment department and they last. This one dried up on me so it's time to let it go. See full review here. 

• Arbonne Calm Gentle Daily Moisturizer (would not repurchase) - This moisturizer was fine. It was very gentle, as it claims to be, but the smell was kind of weird and I don't like buying products from these pyramid-type businesses. 

• Pixi Bronzer in Subtly Suntouched (would repurchase) - I got this sample in a past Ipsy bag and loved it so much. It's perfect for pale skin that doesn't need warming up so much as contouring. After this ran out I bought the full size from Target so I'm back in business!

• Bella Organics Deodorant Cream in Lavender Vanilla (would repurchase) - I'm a big fan of the Bella Organics natural deodorants. They aren't made with aluminum or any nasty ingredients and while they won't keep you dry (they aren't an anti-perspirant), they will keep you smelling fresh. See full review here. 

• B&BW Waikiki Beach Coconut Body Lotion (would not repurchase) - This smelled really nice, and I actually used it while vacationing on Waikiki Beach fittingly. I am trying to use more natural body lotions than this, hence why I wouldn't repurchase. If you don't care about that, this is a nice lotion. It's not greasy and provides gently hydration to the skin. 

• Katy Perry Purr Perfume (would repurchase) - This is an older Katy Perry fragrance, it came out in 2010. It's a bit young for my taste, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. It's fruity with notes of vanilla and sandalwood.

• Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil (would repurchase) - You can't go wrong with an all-purpose product like this argan oil. I used it in my hair as well as on my face as an overnight moisturizer. It didn't break me out and left my skin feeling healthy. 

• Shira Organics samples (would repurchase) - I just did a full review of all of these here. Many of these I loved, go check out that post to see what I'd consider purchasing in a full size. 

• No-Miss Almost Natural Polish Remover (would repurchase) - I purchased this when I found out I was pregnant so I could skip using acetone during these 10 months. This surprised me so much, it works like a charm on any kind of nail polish and it has way less harmful chemicals in it. It's a little tough to find, I got mine at my local Natural Grocers, but you can get it at select websites, too. 

• Colgate Optic White toothpaste (would repurchase) - I got this in an Influenster box and enjoyed using it. It made my teeth maybe a teeny bit whiter, but nothing crazy. I wouldn't go out of my way to buy it, as I prefer more natural alternatives, but I'd use it again if it came in to my possession. 

• Nature's Way Priobiotics (would repurchase) - I am religious about taking a probiotic, or at least drinking some if I don't have time to take a pill version. They're so good for your health, especially your digestive health. I would highly recommend looking in to them if you haven't before. I liked this brand and I'd buy it again. 

• Desert Essence Oil Control Lotion (would repurchase) - I actually didn't use this, but I bought it for my husband and he did. He liked it, but he said he wouldn't use it on his forehead or he'd break out. He's using a different one now, but he'd use this again. 

• B&BW Smoked Berries & Incense candle (would repurchase) - This is an older candle from B&BW that was part of a limited collection. I loved pretty much everything from this line, and this candle was no exception. It had a great smoky fruity scent that filled the house. I loved it and would definitely get it again if they come out with it. 

March Ipsy Glam Bag

Ooooohhh boy - this month's Ipsy Glam Bag is a good one! I kept pulling products out and getting more and more excited! I know I say it every time, but just in case you're new to the idea of Ipsy, it costs just $10 per month and you get a really good sampling of full and deluxe sample sized goodies. If you're interested in giving it a go, you can sign up here. 

Here's what came in the March Glam Bag:

• Marc Anthony Argan Oil of Morocco 3 Day Smooth Perfect  Blow Dry Cream - This cream is a combo of olive oil, argan oil and shea butter. It's meant to keep hair straight and frizz free for up to three days. 

• NYX Liquid Suede lipstick in Pink Lust - This lipstick goes on nice and easily and dries to a velvet, waterproof matte finish. This will stay glued to your lips for hours. Pink Lust is a neon pink that's far too bright for every day wear, but it's fun for the right occasion. 

• Manna Kadar Cosmetics eye shadow in Fantasy - This eye shadow is gorgeous, buttery and the color would look amazing on any skin tone. I love it and will definitely get a lot of use out of it. 

• Pixi Beauty Blush Duo in Rose Gold - I'm a big fan of Pixi products and this blush is no exception! The color is beautiful and natural looking and the highlight that accompanies it is gorgeous. 

• NoTS 28 Remedy Balancing Toner - This toner aims to calm and soothe the skin while prepping it to absorb the products you put on top of it. 

L to R: Manna Kadar eye shadow, Pixi blush & highligther

What came in your bag this month? Have you tried any of these products? Let me know! 

Face of the Day | Simple everyday look

My apologies if the picture above is completely blinding you with my whiteness! Pale is my middle name... hello - I'm a redhead living in the frozen tundra known as Minnesota. But let's be real - I simply blend in with everyone else in the frozen tundra... I'm still just as white come July. (Praise be to the spray tan gods!) 

It's been quite a while since I've done a "FOTD" post, so I thought I'd show you an easy everyday look that's totally appropriate for the office, or a night out with friends, and it won't take you very long either!

I decided to break out my Coastal Scents shadows to achieve this look. It uses just 4 colors, but could easily use less or more if you wish. From top to bottom, L to R, I used Kokomo Cafe, Southern Wood, and Deep Merlot - each are Coastal Scents hot pots. The three shades are starred on the photo below.

The eyes are simple. Prime them first to get the best staying power as well as color pop (I used MAC's Soft Ochre paint pot), and then take Kokomo Cafe on a fluffy blending brush and sweep it along the crease of your eye. You don't have to be super precise, this will just help the shadows blend in to each other and keep your eye look from having sharp lines. 

Next take Deep Merlot on an eyeshadow brush and put that in to the outer corner of your eye and blend it inwards towards your tear duct. Blend, blend, blend! Then grab Southern Wood, and dab that on the outer corner and blend it through, not taking it quite as far as you did Deep Merlot. This will deepen the look just slightly. Grab your clean, fluffy blending brush and blend all the colors together. No harsh lines is the goal!

I did pop a bit of Wet n Wild's Creme Brulee in the middle of my eyelid to make the browns pop, and then used Sigma's eye shadow base in Strike along my lower lash line as it matched the shirt I wore that day. I then lined my eyes with Wet n Wild's Mega Liner liquid eyeliner in black (and it didn't apply as nicely as I wanted to, so if it looks wonky to you... it looks wonky to me, too), and applied a couple coats of Calvin Klein CK One Color mascara in True Black. 

The rest of the look (and really ANY of it) can be modified to fit your skin type and preferences. I used my favorite Covergirl 3-in-1 foundation (review here) set with the Essence All About Matt powder and the Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch concealer under my eyes, set with the Tarte Smooth Operator powder.

I filled in my eyebrows with NYX's eyeshadow in True Taupe (can you tell I love it - I hit MAJOR pan on it!), touched up with the Wet n Wild eyebrow pencil in Taupe, all set with Maybelline Great Lash in clear. 

On my cheeks I used Benefit's Rockateaur blush (not pictured - it's part of a big set), contoured with Pixi's Beauty Bronzer in Subtly Suntouched and Victoria's Secret Illuminating Face Powder in Impassioned as a highlight. I dabbed a touch of C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve on my lips, and voila! Look complete!

You could totally up your game and throw some lipstick on to look extra glam, but I was keeping this look a bit played down. See what I mean - super easy! You don't have to have the exact colors I featured - use what you have that's similar. That's the fun and creative part of makeup application.



What is your go-to eye eyeshadow? What lip would you pair with this look? 

Empties #7

Lots of empties for you this month! Let's get started!

Batiste Dry Shampoo in Wild - This is my absolute favorite scent of Batiste dry shampoo that I have ever tried. It has a sexy scent that I loved smelling in my hair. I think I've found a new holy grail. Would I repurchase?  Absolutely. 

gud Natural Nourishing Shampoo & Softening Conditioner in Vanilla Flame - These surprised me... I bought them on a whim because I saw them on clearance and I absolutely loved both of them. They smelled great and made my hair super soft and manageable. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Dove body wash in Pistachio Cream with Magnolia - This smelled heavenly. I really loved this body wash as it was really creamy and hydrated my skin. Would I repurchase? Already have.

Boots extracts body wash in Bergamot - You've seen some of the other Boots body washes in my previous empties posts, and all have been really nice to use. I didn't like this scent as much as the others, but it was a good body wash. Would I repurchase? Probably.

The Body Shop body scrub in Chocomania - This was a really nice body scrub, especially for use before sunless tanning. It had a nice thick sugary grit and it didn't leave any oil residue behind. And can we just talk about the smell? Oh... that smell. I wanted to eat this scrub it smelled so delicious! Would I repurchase? Yes. 

Yes to Cucumbers Hypoallergenic facial towelettes - These are a tried and true favorite of mine. I've come to love them a little less lately, but they still do the trick and I've got some more packs to use up. Would I repurchase? Yes, already have.

Almay Soothing & De-Puffing eye makeup remover pads - I definitely didn't notice any de-puffing going on thanks to these wipes, but they removed my eye makeup just fine. Would I repurchase? Probably.

Michael Todd Skin Loving aloe & cucumber natural makeup removal towelettes - I received these as a bonus with a Michael Todd order, but I have to say I'm glad I didn't pay for these. They were not wet enough for my taste and the towelettes were smaller than your average makeup wipe. Would I repurchase? No.

Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous foundation - I've rambled a million times about this. Full review here. Would I repurchase? Already have.

Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara - I really enjoyed using this. It made my June favorites, where you can read more about this product. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Pixi Large Lash Mascara - This name is not descriptive of the product inside. This was WAY too natural for my taste. It didn't volumize, didn't lengthen, and certainly didn't make my lashes large. I didn't enjoy using this. Would I repurchase? No.

Maybelline Great Lash in clear - I use this to set my eyebrows and it does the job. Not much more to say. Would I repurchase? Yes, already have.

Wet n Wild Mega Liner in black - This is a holy grail eyeliner for me, and you've seen it in previous empties. I don't go without this. Would I repurchase? Yes, already have.

Lypsyl beeswax lip balm - This balm was in some sort of limited edition scent (I want to say pomegranate plum but I'm not 100%) and I picked it up on a whim at Walgreens. It completely exceeded all expectations, and I LOVED it. It was really hydrating and comfortable on the lips. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Carmex Moisture Plus lip balm - I love Carmex.. I've always got some in my stash. I loved this cute packaging. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Blistex Medicated Lip Ointment - I love this stuff for when I have sore lips or a canker sore that's irritating my lips. It's tingly and numbing and has crazy healing powers. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Crest Glamorous White toothpaste - Meh, just toothpaste. It was fine, but probably not worth the extra money for its "whitening powers". Would I repurchase? Yes.

B&BW antibac in Pink Vanilla Macaron - This smelled so good! I loved the Sweet Shop collection from this spring and wish all those scents weren't limited edition! Would I repurchase? Yes.

Montagne Jeunesse Super Fruit & Creamy Coconut face masks - Full reviews of these can be found here. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Malin+Goetz gentle neroli shampoo - I got this sample in a Birchbox and it was good for one wash. It smelled kind of like bergamot to me and it did a good job cleaning my hair. Would I repurchase? Maybe.

Coach Poppy Flower parfum - This smelled really nice. It had notes of water lily and jasmine and was very fresh smelling. It's not really something I need in my collection however. Would I repurchase? No.

Biore Deep Pore Charcoal cleanser - This smelled really good and felt sort of minty and tingly on my face. I would really like to get the full size of this. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Yankee Candle in Pink Lady Slipper - This smelled really nice and well, floral. It had kind of a powdery scent somewhere in there, too. Would I repurchase? Probably not.

B&BW candle in Pink Lemonade Pound Cake - Another item from The Sweet Shop spring collection, AKA the best collection B&BW has put out (in my humble opinion). This smelled so sickeningly sweet in the best way... I loved every second of this candle. Would I repurchase? Yes.

Yankee Candle in Summer Wish - Summer Wish is a favorite Yankee scent of mine. It has a nice fresh, floral scent and makes any room smell great. Would I repurchase? Yes.

There ya have it. Have you tried any of these products? Let me know!

July Ipsy 2014

It's Ipsy time, ya'll! And this month's bag is pretty good! For those of you new to the whole Ipsy bag thing, in the shortest description it's a monthly subscription service that sends beauty samples (many times with a couple full size products!) straight to your door for just $10/month! Click here to sign up. 

Here's what came in this month's bag.

• bareMinerals 5-in-1 BB Advanced Performance Cream Eyeshadow - This is a nude eyeshadow that can be used alone or as a base. It has a hint of shimmer to it, only visible in the light. Very pretty.

• Pixi Tinted Brilliance Balm in Unique Pink - This is a clear balm that smells minty. I really like Pixi so I'm excited to receive this!

• Clear Clinic Laboratories Vanished Clear Spot Treatment - This is a spot treatment for acne specially formulated with menthol, glycolic acid and salicylic acid. I get spots now and then so this isn't a bad thing to have on hand.

• Pur~lisse pur~protect essential daily moisturizer - Pur~lisse has been featured before on Ipsy. I don't have an opinion on the brand one way or the other, but this will be a nice travel moisturizer.

• Models Own Nail Polish in Red Sea - This is a pretty glittery red polish. I'm new to the Models Own brand and am looking forward to trying it.

Do you subscriber to Ipsy? What did you get in your bag? Let me know!

Final battle: Birchbox vs. Ipsy (March Edition)

In February, I made the decision that March would be the last month I receive a Birchbox. The inconsistency of the boxes, and the lack of value compared to Ipsy finally made me decide that it's just not worth it for me to spend even $10 a month on it anymore. So today, I bring you the final battle: Birchbox vs. Ipsy.

MARCH BIRCHBOX

• Ojon Damage Reverse Restorative Hair Treatment + Hair Treatment Plus - Grrrr... this foil packet convinced me further that it's time to cancel Birchbox. I'm pretty sure I could get this for free at any department store or on the Ojon website. So annoying! I don't like to use these because the packaging is so inconvenient. 

• Gilchrist & Soames London Collection Body Lotion - This looks like a lotion bottle you get at a hotel. It actually has that same smell that most of them do, too. It's a nice throw in your purse size, but it's just not anything special, and I definitely wouldn't spend $16 on a full-size of this.
• DDF Ultra-Lite Oil-Free Moisturizing Dew - I'm intrigued by this facial moisturizer, and hey - you get a whole ounce which is a pretty decent sample (considering full-size is 1.7 oz)! It's pricey for a full-size, retailing at $42, so I highly doubt I'd ever buy this again, but I'll be glad to use it.

• COOLA Tinted Matte SPF 30 for Face - Ugh, I'm so sick of getting samples from COOLA. This is the third or fourth sample size I have of various SPFs from COOLA. In the summer, I'll probably use this, but I just really don't care to have another tinted moisturizer.

• English Laundry No. 7 For Her - This smells REALLY good, and of course the full-size retails for $90! Oof. That's a pricey perfume. 

• Ghirardelli Intense Dark Cherry Tango Square - I really don't want a chocolate square in my beauty box. Period. I signed up for beauty samples.... 

MARCH IPSY

• Pixi Flawless Beauty Primer - This is a really nice sample size, and the product inside seems nice, too! It has very fine golden shimmer and feels nice and smooth. I think this will be great for summer.

• bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie Lipstick in Get Ready - This is a great everyday color, perfect for work or daytime wear. Love it!

• NYX Love in Rio trio in Amazonian Babes - This trio of eyeshadows is made up of shimmering browns that are awesome for every day wear.

• Chella Indigo Blue eyeliner - This is a really great eyeliner pen, it's just a shame I don't wear blue eyeliner! I might just have to for fun one of these days to get some use out of this. This is full-sized, and a full-size costs $24!! That's quite the value, considering Ipsy costs just $10/month!

If you'd like to subscribe to Birchbox or Ipsy, click any of the hyperlinked "Birchbox" or "Ipsy" links in this post. Each subscription service costs just $10 per month for awesome beauty samples. As you can tell, I would highly recommend Ipsy over Birchbox, as I think the value is consistently good and you often get full-sized products. 

FOTD | Brunch

This past Sunday, a friend of mine invited a couple girls over for a brunch at her house. It was a really fun morning full of delicious food and great company. We dined on a pepper and artichoke frittata, apple cinnamon muffins and breakfast cookies. And of course, mimosas. What brunch would be complete without mimosas? 

I wanted a really fresh, simple look for this brunch and I thought I'd share with you what I used to achieve just that. 

• Face: I moisturized with Neutrogena Oil-Free moisturizer (not pictured) and followed up with Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch primer on areas of my face where my pores are larger than other areas. I then used Revlon's Nearly Naked foundation in shade 110 Ivory and applied it all over the face using my Sigma F80 flat-top kabuki brush. For blush, I used a Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Plum Wine, which adds a really natural flush to the cheeks. To set my foundation, and even over-top of my blush, I used the NYC Smooth Skin Pressed Face Powder in Transluscent. This isn't my favorite powder, but it's been in my collection for too long so I'm trying to use it up. 

• Eyes: I primed my eyelids first using Urban Decay's eye primer in Eden (not pictured - I have an icky sample packet I'm using). I then used the matte taupe color in the picture above called Like a Virgin (from the Too Faced Naked Eye Palette) to define my crease. On the rest of my eyelid, I used an Ulta eyeshadow in Seashell. This is the pinky gold color you see catching the light in the images above. For eyeliner, I use my tried and true favorite liquid eyeliner, Wet n Wild's Mega Liner in Black. For mascara, I applied one coat of Ulta Plush Drama mascara in Jet Black, followed by a coat of Pixi's Large Lash Mascara in Best Brown. 

• Eyebrows: To fill in my eyebrows, I used the NYX eyeshadow single in True Taupe. I love using this shadow for my brows because of the natural, full look it gives. To set them, I used Maybelline Great Lash clear gel. 

• Lips: With all the cold, dreary weather we've been having, I was craving a bright bold pink lip. I used a lipstick by Besame Cosmetics in the shade Exotic Pink (remember that lipstick?). Is that packaging amazing or what?!

What is your go-to brunch look?

Battle of the Subscription Boxes IIV: Birchbox vs. Ipsy

That time of the month is here - the battle between Birchbox and Ipsy! Let's dive right in... 

November Birchbox

• Color Club Nail Polish in On the Rocks (full-size: $8) This shimmery grey polish is from the new "Cocktail Hour" collection from  Color Club. I believe this is the third mini Color Club polish I've received from Birchbox - I enjoy getting them.

• Elite Therapeutics Elite Creme (full-size: $45) This is an all-over moisturizer for body and face. Basically, it's a super fancy lotion.

• Laura Mercier Lip Glacé in Quartz (full-size: $24) I was so excited to get a sample from Laura Mercier in this birchbox.... until I saw the color. No joke, it looks like I ate shimmery chocolate and smeared it all over my lips. This shade is not for us fair gals... 

• Shea Terra Organics Rose Hips Black Soap Deep Pore Facial Cleanser (full-size: $16) Any time I can swap my chemical-induced products for organic and natural options, I'm happy. This cleanser claims to clear blemishes and brighten skin tone. The color is scary, but I'm willing to be brave and give it a shot.

• Juicy Couture Viva la Juicy Noir perfume  (full-size: $25-$90) Unfortunately, this sample came shattered in my birchbox (and birchbox CS reps were awesome in dealing with this - THANK YOU, birchbox, if you're reading!) On the upside, my birchbox products smell awesome! I have the original Juicy Couture which is a very versatile, fruity/musky scent, and this is a more sultry version with hints of berry and honeysuckle.

• Ahmad Tea London (full-size: $7) Due to the perfume sample spilling all over my box, I don't think these teas are drinkable anymore (again, thanks to Birchbox CS team for sending another sample my way!). I'm excited to try these British teas when I receive new ones, as I'm a bit of a tea junkie.

November Ipsy Glam Bag

• Kiss EverEZ False Lashes (full-size: $3.99) Full-size product alert! I've tried Kiss lashes before and they're great! The nice thing about these is they come with glue and an applicator. This specific pack has nice long, natural looking lashes which I'm positive I'll get use out of.

• Pixi Beauty Bronzer in Subtly Suntouched (full-size: $18) It's no secret I absolutely love Pixi products, and since I've never tried any of their face powders, I'm thrilled to try this. It's described as a medium honey tan and looks beautiful in the pan. Great size, too - about 1/3 of the size you'd buy in stores.

• Nailtini Nail Lacquer in Caviar Cocktail (full-size: $13) Full-size product alert! This is nearly the same shade that I received in my Birchbox - coincidence or not? I don't love silver nail polishes, but I'm happy to try out a brand that's new to me and to receive it in full-size! 

• .em by Michelle Phan Waterliner in Bronze Kiss (full-size: $20) Full-size product alert! .em cosmetics is a fairly new brand, launched by super-popular YouTube beauty guru, Michell Phan. I've heard mixed reviews about her cosmetics line, but this liner seems like a total gem - it's a beautiful shade and claims to apply without tugging or smudging. I'm excited to give this a go!

• StarLooks Gem Pencil in Amethyst (full-size: $14) Full-size product alert! This is the third month in a row that I've received something from StarLooks -- not that I'm complaining; I've generally liked their products so far. This gem pencil is a silvery lavender color with lots of shimmer and is maybe the best of the three products I've received. It would be a gorgeous liner, or even better smeared out over the lid.

• Be a Bombshell Lip Crayon in Shameless (full-size: $14) Full-size product alert! ANOTHER full-size product! This lip crayon is a burgundy red with shimmer. The lip crayon format makes it super easy to apply. A great color to keep stashed in your purse for fall!

L to R: Lip Crayon, Waterliner, Gem Pencil, Bronzer

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The winner is abundantly clear - IPSY! With five full-size products, and a value of over $60 - the $10/month price tag is so worth it! 

Ipsy and Birchbox are a great way to try out various products before shelling out the money to purchase something in full-size. To sign up for Birchbox, or Ipsy, just click the links in this sentence! Both are just $10 a month for awesome beauty samples delivered straight to your door.

What did YOU get in your Birchbox or Ipsy this month? Let me know in the comments below!

Battle of the Subscriptions Boxes II: Birchbox vs. Ipsy

It's August, and a (fairly) new month means a new Battle of the Subscription boxes featuring Birchbox and Ipsy. There may not be too many more of these, as it's becoming abundantly clear to me which subscription service I'd like to stick with and which one I'm ready to dump. Let's dive right in...

August Birchbox

The Goods

Whish Hair Inhibiting Deodorant Swipes | Full-size: $16

Whish Exfoliating Body Wash | Full-size: $22

This is a brand I've received before in my Birchbox (I believe it was a shaving cream I received previously). To me, this packaging makes the product look cheap. However, I'm intrigued by the deodorant swipe, which claims to tackle odor and slow hair growth, but I don't think it's something that would replace my standard stick deodorant. The body wash smells coconut-y and is filled with sugar cane and bamboo powder to exfoliate the skin. 

(MALIN+GOETZ) gentle neroli shampoo | Full-size: $20

The only good thing about this sample is that it's from a brand I've been wanting to try. Everything else about this sample SUCKS, and really makes me consider if Birchbox has lost their vision and respect for their customers. Another tear-off sample? How can I truly get a feel for how I like a product when I barely get one single use out of it? This is a complete waste of my money; I could get these free in the mail. Not happy.

Juice Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer | Full-size $28

I just recently heard of this brand somewhere in the depths of the internet, so I'm looking forward to giving this moisturizer a go. This moisturizer hydrates with natural antioxidants and hyaluronic acid, which is cool because hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in the body, not some weird chemical. This is a good sized sample, too - 0.5 oz!

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in 01 Beso | Full-size: $22

This is easily the best product in my Birchbox, and I am pumped about it. This is one serious red, gals. It looks like blood. If you want bold, bright red lips, look no further. Luckily this sample was included, because it's really the only redeeming quality this Birchbox has.

August Ipsy Glam Bag

The Goods

Pixi Lash Booster Mascara | Full-size: $18

This is one tiny mascara sample. Like... teeny tiny. I think this will serve me well for a few applications and then it will be time to throw it out. I love Pixi, so I'm happy to try it out, but I think the sample could have been a bit more generously sized. Oh well!

Lime Crime Nail Polish in Crema De Limon 

Lime Crime is a brand I love but have never tried anything from - I just love their whole look and personality. Crema De Limon is a bright creamy pastel yellow nail polish that came in the most adorable packaging. This will be an awesome end of summer polish. Please note, I did receive this product as a bonus for referring friends to Ipsy.

Michael Todd Jojoba Charcoal Face Scrub | Full-size: $18

I have been seeing everyone on the internet talking about Michael Todd lately and I'm super excited to have a chance to try it out for myself! This is a big sample, too - 1 oz! Don't be alarmed, but this scrub is black! But it has a pleasant lemon scent. I can't wait to use this!

Pacifica Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream | Full-size: $16

This is a gorgeous BB cream, filled with very fine gold shimmer. I don't think I'll use this all over my face, but it would be a great highlight. It would also work well to mix in with foundation for a dewy glow. 

NYX Powder Blush in 03 Angel 

JACKPOT! A full-size NYX blush?!! I could hardly contain my excitement when I opened my Ipsy Glam Bag and saw this gem! NYX makes some of my favorite blushes, and I don't have Angel yet which is a gorgeous nude bronzey peach with a hint of shimmer. These retail for $5 - half the value of your Glam Bag!

Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick in Anarchy | Full-size: $22

Ohhhhhhh yeah! A good sized sample of the new Urban Decay lipsticks showed up in my Glam Bag this month! I nearly jumped for joy! This stunning hot pink called Anarchy is creamy and highly pigmented and I plan to use this down to the last bit. 

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It's no secret who won this month's battle. The clear winner is Ipsy, whomping Birchbox with full-size products, and relevant samples of new items. Ipsy has me super excited to see what's in my glam bag each month, and hey - you get a cute little makeup bag to use each month, too. If you haven't signed up yet, it's just $10 a month. Click here to get started!

If you like the Birchbox samples better, click here to start your subscription for just $10 a month.

Who do you think won?