Sephora Haul (Pic heavy)

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I somehow managed to find a smidgen of time to head to Sephora.  After all, was I simply to waste my $15 off Sephora "Beauty Insider" coupon?  Of course not!  I told my husband that would be like throwing money right out the window! (wink, wink)

Now, on to the goodies:

First up, I purchased the Oscar Blandi "Pronto Invisible" Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray.  I have a number of other dry shampoos, but what attracted me to this one was the fact that it sprays clear and does not leave a white residue.  I used it quickly today and I loved the fact that it didn't look like I poured baby powder in my roots.  The smell was also tolerable to me, not too musky.  I picked up the smaller can to test the product.  Price point:  $11.

Next up is the bareMinerals Buxom lips Diamond "Celeste". I always love voluminous lips and I love shimmer so the combination seemed perfect for me.  The packaging says its infused with antioxidants vitamins A and E.  I picked a shade I thought would go with a variety of lipsticks, although I did like it alone too.  "Celeste" is a peach, pink tone with lots of micro-shimmer.  Price point:  $18.

After reading countless reviews and seeing endless Youtube videos, I decided to get  Korres Lip Butter in "Jasmine."  The balm appartently melts into the lips and leaves a soft, tinted finish.  Shea butter and rice wax are the hydration agents.  "Jasmine" is a sheer baby pink color.  I used it today and did like the feel of it.  Only time will tell if it leaves my lips soft and supple.  Price point:  $10.

Always on the hunt for eyebrow products since I have unruly brows, I picked up Anastasia's Perfect Brow Pencil in Brunette.  I recently ran out of my MAC Lingering brow crayon so I thought I would try something new and hopefully better (what frustrates me about the MAC is that you can't tell how much product remains and I seem to run out at the most inopportune moments).  So far, the color is nicely pigmented and it glides on easily and lasts all day.  Overall, I am happy thus far.  Price point:  $22.

I was in need of finding a great soft brush to use with my Laura Mercier Mineral Foundation.  Alas, I came across the Sephora Collection Professional Mineral Powder Brush #45.  I am in love!  The brush is super soft and fits perfectly in the crevices of my face to apply the mineral powder.  The handle is nice and sturdy too.  Price point:  $26.

I cashed in 100 beauty insider points to get a deluxe sample size of Make Up For Ever's HD Microfinish Powder.  Currently, as stated above, I am using and loving Laura Mercier's Mineral Foundation, so I don't think I will be using this for a bit of time as I don't want to layer powder over powder.

Finally, I purchased "Boo Boo Bling."  Let me be perfectly honest here, I wholeheartedly did intend to give this to my neighbor's darling 7 year old daughter; HOWEVER, I think I will keep these sparkly bandage covers for myself as I am a MAJOR KLUTZ. ;)  Price point:  $6.

Has anyone tried any of the products mentioned above?  I would love to hear your feedback!

XO

Jolene

Speaking of Giveaways...Check this out!

My absolutely stunning friend Elise over at Blush is the New Black is hosting a marvelous giveaway.  Her blog is one of my favorite reads, and her photos are gorgeous!  She has an amazing sense of fashion and I adore her writing style.  Head over and check out her great giveaway!

If you haven't done so already, don't forget to also enter my "Bling in the New Year" Giveaway!  See photo below for prizes:

Good luck to all and happy blogging!!

XO

Jolene

"BLING IN THE NEW YEAR" GIVEAWAY! (NOW CLOSED)

I am elated to announce MY FIRST GIVEAWAY!  I've entitled it:  "Bling in the New Year" as I felt the upcoming New Year was the perfect occasion to host my first giveaway and include sparkly presents.

This blog has proven to be such a wonderful outlet for me.  I have immensely enjoyed all of the fun comments and wonderful friendships I have formed since the blog's inception and I look forward to more delight in the upcoming year.

"Bling in the New Year" List of Prizes:

• Lancome Juicy Tubes Gift Set- "Sparkling Pinks" (Set includes the following 6 colors:  Butterflies, Sweetheart, Pink Bling, Raspberry Ice, Miracle, and Dreamsicle)
• NARS Highlighting Blush Powder - "Albatross"
• OPI "Simmer & Shimmer" Nail Lacquer
• NYX Blush -"Pinky"
• NYX Blush - "Peach"
• NYX Glitter Cream Pallet - "Paradise"

RULES:

• Must be a public follower of my blog (either new or existing)- MANDATORY
• Post comment below stating "ENTER ME" (please include your email address so that I can contact you should you win) -  1 ENTRY
• Additional entries may be earned by (OPTIONAL):
• Blog about this giveaway and include the above photo and link back to my post.  Must provide the link in the comment section.  2 ENTRIES
• Post about my giveaway in your blog's sidebar and include the above photo and link back to this post.  Must provide your blog's link in the comment section.  1 ENTRY
• Tell me your one most meaningful New Year's Resolution in the comment section below.  1 ENTRY 
• Maximum Number of Entries = 5

• This giveaway is open WORLDWIDE
• Anonymous posts will not be accepted
• Giveaway will be officially closed on January 11, 2011 (1/11/11) at midnight.
• Winner will be announced on my blog January 12, 2011.  Please remember to leave your email address so that I can contact you.  Winner will have 72 hours to respond to my email.  Should winner not respond in that time-frame, an alternate winner be selected and notified.
• Winner will be chosen via Random.org's number generator.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL!  

Here's my most meaningful resolution for the year:  To finally and absolutely take ballroom dancing lessons (specifically Argentine Tango lessons).  I have dreamed about this for years and have done nothing to pursue it .  I guess you could say that my overall resolution is to pursue my passions in 2011!

XO
Jolene

HOTD: Farrah Fawcett Waves

I wanted to share some photos of my hair today.  I went into my salon for a quick trim and my stylist gave me a blow-dry with pretty waves.  When I got home, my husband so adorably said "Well hello Farrah Fawcett".  His little comment put a grin on my face so I though I would share the look.  After my stylist blew my hair straight, he created the waves using both a flat iron and a curling iron.  

In terms of color, we highlight half a head of hair every 8-10 weeks (new growth only) and we leave the back alone.  The dark underneath color you see is my natural hair color.  

 View of my hair from the back:

 Thought it was a fun look, hope you enjoy it too.  Have a great weekend!!

PS- As I am typing this my older son just saw the title of the post and said:  "What are you mom, the Hottie of the Day?"  LOL!!!!

"Dreaming of a White Christmas"

I wanted to share my white Christmas tree.  Yes, it is a bit nontraditional, but it brings me so much joy to see this little baby each year!  Approximately five years ago, I told my husband that I had always dreamed of having a white tree to decorate with sparkly silver ornate ornaments.  Guess what?  He said that he always wanted a white tree too!!  With that, we have enjoyed our tree immensely since then.

Two of my favorite ornaments:

Happy sparkly, blingy, glittery Holidays to all!

Current Obsession: Fur-Trimmed Ankle Boot

Simply enamored by this style boot, I have found 3 variations; all of which I would be more than happy to have in my "shoe-drobe". 

Featured below is the Christian Louboutin "Toundra" fur boot.  It is available here at Bergdorf Goodman for a mere $2,095.  I am smitten!!

Next up is a similar style with plush tufts of fur wrapped within the ankle straps.  They are the Dolce Vita "Tatum" ankle boot and are available here via Nordstrom for $248.95.  

Finally, I am equally as infatuated with these babies below.  They are the Aldo "Vanderau" bootie available in both taupe and midnight black.  They can be purchased here at Aldo for $110. 

Does anyone else find this style as intriguing and lust-worthy as I do? 

My Lushest Lashes- New Secret Weapon

Using Shiseido Nourishing Mascara Base

In my never-ending quest to find the perfect mascara, I have stumbled upon mascara base gold!  As I have previously mentioned here and here, I have barely visible lashes.  Therefore, I covet luxurious and opulent lashes to no end.  As it turns out, I am still on the hunt for THE ONE mascara, however, I am very impressed with the results of utilizing Shiseido's Nourishing Mascara Base under the mascaras in my current rotation.

Shiseido claims the product:

• Intensifies volume, length, and curl
• Conditions and makes lashes more supple
• Provides an elegant glossy finish when worn alone

After over one month of continual daily usage,  I concur with these statements (although I have never worn the product alone, it does make your lashes glossy prior to mascara application).  The base is a clear gel consistency- which I adore as other primer/bases that I have tried in the past have been white and often dilute the color effect of black mascaras to more of a gray finish.

When using this under my mascara, my lashes are full and long and the curl holds all day.   It makes my best mascaras appear more dramatic (which I LOVE).  I have paired this with a number of mascaras, including: YSL Faux Cils, YSL Singulier, Maybelline The Falsies, and DiorShow Iconic.  So far, I have discovered that I get the best, most dramatic results when I pair it with L'Oreal Voluminous in Carbon Black (as used in my first shot above).

As far as my application technique, I simply swipe Shiseido's Nourishing Mascara Base all over my clean lashes and let it set for about 10-15seconds.  I then apply a second coat of the product and simultaneously push my lases into place.  At this point, I can visually see my lashes are curled and look much longer (and they are glossy).  I wait another 10-15 seconds and apply 2 coats of  L'Oreal Voluminous on top.  Shiseido's website does not specify if you should wait until the product is completely dry prior to mascara application.  I have tried waiting a minute or so and I ended up with crunchy lashes and therefore only wait 10-15 seconds before putting on my mascara.

The price for the product is $23 and I will happily re-purchase again and again.
Note:  I have never tried the original Shiseido mascara base and cannot offer a comparison.

I hope this review was helpful.  I do recommend you give this product a shot if you crave over-the-top lashes as much as I do!!  Has anyone else ever tried this product?

"One for You...and One for Me"

While out holiday shopping this weekend for my family, I couldn't resist picking up a few small goodies for myself too.  I kept all of my own purchases on the festive side, as I plan to wear them specifically on days I will be celebrating the holidays with family.  

 Fun bow hoop earrings from Betsey Johnson.  Retails for $45, but with sale plus coupon at Lord & Taylor, I was able to snag these for around $25.

Betsey Johnson Bow Hoop Earrings 

 Another view:

Betsey Johnson Bow Hoop Earrings

Had to have this nail polish!  Will absolutely wear on Christmas Day and possibly for New Year's Eve too!  Fun, glittery red.  Purchased at Lord & Taylor for $18.

Deborah Lippmann Ruby Red Slipper

I love hair accessories almost as much as I love jewelry accessories.  What could be more fun than a pack of sparkly headbands from Forever 21 for only $3.50?

  Forever 21 Sparkly Headbands

And, finally, while not exactly "festive"; I purchased the Laura Mercier Mineral Powder in Rich Vanilla for $35.  I will be doing a proper review of this foundation shortly.  In brief, I love it- nice coverage, perfect color match, and did not make me oily.  

Laura Mercier Mineral Powder in Rich Vanilla

Hope you are enjoying your holiday shopping as much as I am! 

Magical New York City!

NYC- Radio City

My husband and I enjoyed a glorious time in NYC last night!  While the air had quite a chill to it, the energy that emanates from this grand city fills you with warmth.  Holiday decorations were abound and filled me with glee.  

We drove in last night and while we passed Rockefeller Center (the tree was in place but not yet lit) and Times Square (lights, lights, lights!) I was unable to take a proper picture as we did not stop at a traffic light in either place. 

I hope you enjoy what I was able to take:

Here is my husband and I acting silly before venturing into the city:

On our path to dinner:

We dined at the famous Smith & Wollensky Steakhouse- yummy!

Enjoy your weekend!!!

Cherry on Top Award

I am thrilled to have received this adorable award from the enchanting Jo at PlymouthBarbie.  She has a fantastic blog that I really enjoy reading.  The entire blogging process has been very gratifying and I am so grateful for it. 

Here are the rules to pass this award along:

1. Pick 3 people/blogs and give them this award (very difficult to pick just three with so many great blogs out there!)
2. You then have to inform the person that they have received this award.
3. Answer this question: If you had the chance to go back and change one thing in your life, would you and what would it be??

And the Award goes to:

1.  Elise at Blush is the New Black

2.  Rinz at Miss-RinRin

3.  JLUVBIRDEE

Question:

I'd like to believe that I am exactly where I am supposed to be in my life.  Having said that, I do wish that I would have started this blog sooner as it has really been such a wonderful outlet for me to express myself.  Furthermore, I have "met" so many great people since its inception, including the three lovely bloggers above.  I considered started a blog approximately two years ago, but only wrote my first piece 6 months ago.  I don't know why I waited so long, but I am glad I am here now!  XO

Brilliant Baubles

Jewelry, Shoes, Makeup, Fragrance- My Loves!

Shoe addict?  Check.  Makeup Addict?  Check.  Jewelry Addict?  Check.  

Who doesn't love the transformational power of jewelry?   Jewelry can elevate a mood, change the look of an outfit, bring forth wonderful memories...

I thought I would share some of my pieces.  I like to mix high-end with low-end, vintage with everyday costume pieces, stack rings and bracelets, mix silver and gold.  Jewelry Rules?  Not for me.  My goal is to just have fun.

One of my favorite rings below.  My beloved grandmother used to tell me that she picked me out of a rose garden in heaven when I was born.  Needless to say, I love "rose" items.

Joan Boyce Crystal "One Perfect Rose Ring"

Here's a fun cocktail ring below that came with the Michael Kors Very Pretty fragrance set last year.  The fragrance solid is nestled inside the ring.

Michael Kors "Very Pretty" Cocktail Ring

Fun bracelets that I have blogged about before in this post here: 

L- Ann Taylor Loft Bracelet  R-Paula Abdul Cuff

I would love to hear about some of your favorite pieces!

Little Bit of Luxe

Steve Madden Luxe- Zesty

While on a recent shopping excursion looking for the perfect outfit for a planned night-out, I came home empty-handed and slightly miserable.  Emphasis must be noted on the slightly miserable part, as I did find a rather gorgeous pair of heels that most certainly elevated my mood.  

The above Steve Madden Luxe shoe is named Zesty and was purchased at my local DSW for $79.95.  When I tell you I absolutely do not need another pair of heels, you must believe me (read here for my shoe obsession).  However, who could pass up on this black satin platform pump with a 4" heel and over-sized girlie black bow?  Not I!  

I also love them in red too as I think they would make the perfect holiday heel!  

This is my first pair of shoes from this particular Steve Madden line- Luxe.  I wore them out and they were quite comfy and substantial and garnered a few compliments.  Do you have any shoes from this line?  

Happy Shoe Shopping!

Wake Up to Glowy Skin

Over the past six months or so, I have fallen in love with a skincare product.  Each morning, I simply adore awakening  to glowy, even-toned skin thanks to Estee Lauder's Advanced Night Repair - Synchronized Recovery Complex.  The goal of this formulation is to erase past damage to the skin, while simultaneously protecting against future damage.

I wanted to share my experience with this serum; as I believe it is worth raving over.

My Skin Type:  

Oily and sensitive

I wholeheartedly was extremely weary of trying this product as I was fearful it would breakout me out or make me oilier than I already am.  So thrilled to report that it did neither.  Rather, I wake up each morning with fresh looking, healthy skin.  My skin even looks younger, with less fine lines.  I adore this product!

How I Use It:

Each evening after I wash my face with a gentle cleanser, I apply 3-4 drops from the dropper all over my face and neck.  I rub any excess into my decolletage. I follow it with an oil-free moisturizer.

What Estee Lauder Claims:

PRODUCT DETAILS

The one formula beautiful skin can't live without.

This comprehensive, high-performance anti-aging serum-inspired by groundbreaking DNA research-brings your skin a dramatic reduction in the visible signs of aging.

Use it every day to help continuously repair the appearance of past damage, prevent future damage and deliver high levels of hydration.
If you want younger, healthier-looking skin now and in the future, don't go a night without it.

Feel free to read more about it HERE on their website.  

I suggest visiting an Estee Lauder counter to see if they have a sample on-hand for you to test.  Also, many times a sample bottle is given during one of their GWP events.  

They offer two sizes of the serum on their website or at the counter:

1.0 oz  $47.50

1.7 oz $74.50

I grabbed one at a CCO in TN on a family vacation for about $10 off the listed prices. While the price is rather steep, I am on my same bottle that I purchased six months ago.  If you try the product, I hope you are as smitten with it as I am.  Get ready for glowy, healthy, radiant, younger-looking skin!

FOTD: Featuring Dior Amber Diamond Shimmer Powder

Last night I had a wonderful night out in NYC with some fabulous girlfriends.  I decided to try out the Dior Amber Diamond Shimmer Powder to celebrate the occasion.  This enchanting highlighter gives a "lit from within" glow.  The highlight it produces is really very delicate, not overly shimmery; yet really sophisticated.  The product has 5 color bands (ivory, champagne, tan, bronze, and peach)  that I swirled together for a pretty sheen.  The formula blends like a dream and marries with your cheek color beautifully.  I am thrilled I have this in my makeup arsenal!    

FACE:

Foundation:  Philosophy The Supernatural (Sand)

Concealer:  Bobbi Brown Creamy (Beige)
Powder:  Chanel Double Perfection (Sable)

Cheeks:  MAC Eversun

Highlight:  Dior Amber Diamond Shimmer Powder

 
EYES:

Brows:  MAC Brow Crayon- Lingering

Primer:  Urban Decay Primer Potion

Eyeliner:  Lancome Artliner (Noir) and Urban Decay 24/7 (Zero)

Mascara base:  Shiseido Nurturing Mascara Base

Mascara:  YSL Singulier

LIPS:

Highlight:  NARS Copacabana above Cupid's Bow

Lipstick:  Beaute #37

(Left):  Ann Taylor Loft bracelet  (Right):  Paula Abdul cuff from HSN

Additionally, I wanted to share a fantastic little bracelet I picked up at Ann Taylor -The Loft.  This is another great little jewelry find I've had at this store (for my other great find, read HERE).  I paired it with a cuff bracelet I've owned for about two years now from the Paula Abdul line at HSN.  Not only do I love to stack jewelry, but both pieces have a golden silver undertone to them.  

Happy Thursday everyone! 

First Blog Award!

I am elated to have received my first blog award by two very beautiful bloggers:  Terri at http://fortheloveofallthingsgirly.blogspot.com/ and Rinz at http://miss-rinrin.blogspot.com/

So, I pass this on to the following gorgeous bloggers:  

http://jluvbirdee.blogspot.com/

 http://blushisthenewblack.blogspot.com/

http://rakhshanda-chamberofbeauty.blogspot.com/

http://www.drugstoreandbargainlover.com/

http://nicolettasbeautyspace.blogspot.com/

http://plymouthbarbie.blogspot.com/

http://www.allthingsmarie.com/

http://lorealdes.blogspot.com/
http://helloogorgeouss.blogspot.com/

http://missysassypants.blogspot.com/
 http://pretty--wonderful.blogspot.com/

http://catanyasthings.blogspot.com/

I've been featured on edk.dolce!

I'm thrilled to share with you all some exciting news.  I was a featured follower on edk.dolce!  Please read my feature HERE.  In the post, I share information about myself; including beauty inspirations and my top beauty products.  This fabulous and generous feature follower program created by El'Aundra is designed to help drive traffic to your blog - especially great for new bloggers like myself.  Many different genres of bloggers can be featured including:  beauty, fashion, personal,  and health/fitness.  

Getting featured is easy, simply fill out the appropriate form and send it to her via email  For more information and details, please click HERE.

Happy Reading!

FOTD: Halloween Kitty

I am a leopard-print enthusiast!  When I saw these cute little leopard kitty ears with accessories I had to have them.  So, last night at my son's school Halloween party , I indulged my leopard love.  Please read on for a list of products used:

Face:

Primer:  Dr. Brandt Pores No More

Foundation:  Lancome Teint Idole Fresh Wear in Bisque 9W

Concealer:  Bobbi Brown Creamy - Beige

Blush:  MAC Eversun

Highlight:  MAC So Ceylon

Eyes:

Primer:  Urban Decay Primer Potion

Eyeliner:  A combination of:  Lancome Artliner in Noir, MUFE black liquid, and Victoria Secret Beauty Rush in Platinumania

Mascara:  Maybelline The Falsies in Black Drama

Brows:  MAC brow crayon in Lingering

Lips:

Mac Lipstick in Angel and Estee Lauder in Pinkberry

Nose/Whiskers:

Urban Decay 24/7 Pencil in Zero

My younger son went as "Bling" and my older son went as a "Gangsta" - LOL!