I'm wearing two coats, with no topcoat.
Friday, February 21, 2014
NOTD: Dior Bouquet
Today's NOTD is Dior Bouquet, from the Spring 2014 Trianon Collection. I previewed this color earlier in the week when I did my collection overview. Bouquet is a creamy light coral creme. Although it's not as fabulous as Bloom, the formula is still nice.
I'm wearing two coats, with no topcoat.
I'm wearing two coats, with no topcoat.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Chanel Le Vernis Coup de Coeur (#609)- Collection Variation
Since Chanel was the first to release their Spring 2014 collection (before Christmas!), it's only right that the next mini-collection has hit the streets. La Collection Variation is focused on the lips, but has one new Le Vernis shade, Coup de Coeur, #609. I have so many lipsticks and glosses that I passed on the rest of the collection for now, but couldn't resist a new Le Vernis!
Like the rest, Coup de Coeur retails for $27. I purchased mine online from Nordstrom, but spotted it in-store at Macy's over President's Day weekend. Side Note: This is becoming a pattern with Chanel, at least in my area. Nordstrom may be the first to have it online, but Macy's is the place to go to see the colors in-store first, it seems. I haven't seen it on other websites, but look for it in the usual places ASAP.
This baby went right on my nails when I spotted the box on my doorstep. It's photographed here with 2 coats, no topcoat. If the light looks a little low, this was completely a "beat sunset" mani.
Coup de Coeur is a rich plum with a hefty dose of red undertones. It's shockingly similar to Chanel April, and I've tried to capture that in my photos.
Here's the two bottles side by side outside in late afternoon light, no flash:
They're really close, aren't they? It's even closer on the nails.
This indoor photo, with flash exaggerates the difference between April and Coup de Coeur. However, it captures the undertones perfectly.
On the nail, in natural light, it's almost impossible to detect a difference. I couldn't find it with my eyes, so I'm not surprised it didn't show up in photographs. Luckily, I labeled this super quick shot for you. I know it's messy, but it's merely to show the colors.
Flash doesn't even help:
Bottom line: Coup de Coeur is a lovely, ladylike color that will go into heavy rotation in my nail polish collection. I've used about 1/8 of my bottle. If you already own April, you probably don't need Coup de Coeur unless you have an obsessive need like I do to buy all of the Chanel polish!
Pricing/Availability: $27, at Chanel counters.
Like the rest, Coup de Coeur retails for $27. I purchased mine online from Nordstrom, but spotted it in-store at Macy's over President's Day weekend. Side Note: This is becoming a pattern with Chanel, at least in my area. Nordstrom may be the first to have it online, but Macy's is the place to go to see the colors in-store first, it seems. I haven't seen it on other websites, but look for it in the usual places ASAP.
This baby went right on my nails when I spotted the box on my doorstep. It's photographed here with 2 coats, no topcoat. If the light looks a little low, this was completely a "beat sunset" mani.
Coup de Coeur is a rich plum with a hefty dose of red undertones. It's shockingly similar to Chanel April, and I've tried to capture that in my photos.
Here's the two bottles side by side outside in late afternoon light, no flash:
They're really close, aren't they? It's even closer on the nails.
This indoor photo, with flash exaggerates the difference between April and Coup de Coeur. However, it captures the undertones perfectly.
On the nail, in natural light, it's almost impossible to detect a difference. I couldn't find it with my eyes, so I'm not surprised it didn't show up in photographs. Luckily, I labeled this super quick shot for you. I know it's messy, but it's merely to show the colors.
Flash doesn't even help:
Bottom line: Coup de Coeur is a lovely, ladylike color that will go into heavy rotation in my nail polish collection. I've used about 1/8 of my bottle. If you already own April, you probably don't need Coup de Coeur unless you have an obsessive need like I do to buy all of the Chanel polish!
Pricing/Availability: $27, at Chanel counters.
NOTD: Dior Pampille
Today's NOTD is one of the four polishes I previously featured from Dior's Spring 2014 collection. Pampille, a milky mint shimmer, is the most temperamental of the polishes but also I believe the most unique.
This mani is with four thin coats, plus Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab topcoat. Please excuse the condition of my cuticles, all the Creme Abricot in the world can't save them during the depths of winter!
This mani is with four thin coats, plus Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab topcoat. Please excuse the condition of my cuticles, all the Creme Abricot in the world can't save them during the depths of winter!
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Style Wednesday: 5 Investment Handbags
Since I'm re-discovering the fun in blogging and I think we could all use a pick-me-up on Wednesday (side note: although it's a short week here in the US, those often seem to be the longest!). I'm playing around with a new feature idea- Style Wednesday. Think of it as a break from straight up beauty for a brief moment.
Today, I present 5 investment handbags that I feel every professional woman should have in her closet!
Before I was a beauty junkie (really, an interruption to the beauty-love), I was a purse snob. However, something amazing happened along the way. I was able to edit my collection down to just ones that I love and use. While I'm not saying that everyone should buy these exact bags, I recommend these styles to curate a truly useful collection. For instance, I may recommend Kate Spade when you can afford the classic Chanel (which I'd love but can't fathom at this point in my life). Or, you may need Steve Madden or Nine West. Think of these as my suggestions for somewhat-affordable investment pieces.
1. Balenciaga City Bag, $1545
This was the first It-Bag that I fell head over heels for. In the mid-2000s, Balenciaga City Bags adorned all of the celebrities' arms in a rainbow of colors. It took a few years and finding a pre-loved bag before I finally got my beloved 06 Black City. Although it's a lot worse for wear these days, the urge to get a Balenciaga stopped once I finally owned my HG bag. While I find black to be the perfect compromise between fashion and conservative office-wear, there are so many colors for you to choose from! Just beware of the many, many fakes. You can buy it directly from Balenciaga online, although I love looking through the collection at my local Neiman Marcus.
2. Michael Michael Kors Hamilton Large Saffiano Leather Tote, $358
Just to cleanse the palette from that first pricetag, here's a much more affordable investment bag. I lusted over this bag for years. I'm just sorry that I didn't purchase sooner! This image is Luggage, the color I own. I find that it matches everything. A word to the wise, go with the Saffiano Leather- it's waterproof. You can fit so much into this bag that it's the perfect office go-to. Available at Nordstrom, Macy's, and Michael Kors (among other places).
3. Kate Spade Sedgwick Place Large Phoebe Shoulder Bag ($478)
I'll be honest, I prefer the prior Gold Coast pattern, but I don't see it for sale from any reputable retailers. So, I'm going to talk about the latest version of Kate Spade's quilted leather totes with chain handles. It recalls classic Chanel, at a fraction of the price. Pro tip: the outlets have their own pattern of quilted leather bags, and often you can score a large tote for less than $200. Available in a number of colors (I own black, but have often thought about the cream as well) at Nordstrom and Kate Spade.
4. Longchamp Le Pliage- Large Tote ($145)
I truly believe every woman needs a Longchamp Le Pliage Tote or two in her purse wardrobe. I've literally traveled the world with mine, and they're the ultimate commuter bag that you don't have to worry about. For those living under a rock, these foldable totes are water-resistant and can truly take anything you can throw at them. Although $145 may seem steep for a nylon tote, I trust the construction of these. Available at Nordstrom.
5. Louis Vuitton Speedy ($890-$910+)
The Speedy is a classic handbag by a classic manufacturer and a classic shape. You can decide the size, although I recommend either the 25, the smallest, or the 30 at largest. Otherwise, they start to droop too much and it looks like you're carrying luggage. If she can afford it, every woman who wants a LV should have one. Like my Balenciaga, I was able to find a pre-loved Speedy. I happen to love the patina on the handles more than the raw vachetta leather, so it works. I've had mine authenticated, so I don't have to worry. Don't mess with fake handbags, just buy directly from LV online. I'm showing the Damier Ebene pattern, but you can find the Speedy in so many patterns and sizes that there's one for everyone.
That's it for this week's Style Wednesday!
Today, I present 5 investment handbags that I feel every professional woman should have in her closet!
Before I was a beauty junkie (really, an interruption to the beauty-love), I was a purse snob. However, something amazing happened along the way. I was able to edit my collection down to just ones that I love and use. While I'm not saying that everyone should buy these exact bags, I recommend these styles to curate a truly useful collection. For instance, I may recommend Kate Spade when you can afford the classic Chanel (which I'd love but can't fathom at this point in my life). Or, you may need Steve Madden or Nine West. Think of these as my suggestions for somewhat-affordable investment pieces.
1. Balenciaga City Bag, $1545
 |
| Stock image via Balenciaga.com |
This was the first It-Bag that I fell head over heels for. In the mid-2000s, Balenciaga City Bags adorned all of the celebrities' arms in a rainbow of colors. It took a few years and finding a pre-loved bag before I finally got my beloved 06 Black City. Although it's a lot worse for wear these days, the urge to get a Balenciaga stopped once I finally owned my HG bag. While I find black to be the perfect compromise between fashion and conservative office-wear, there are so many colors for you to choose from! Just beware of the many, many fakes. You can buy it directly from Balenciaga online, although I love looking through the collection at my local Neiman Marcus.
2. Michael Michael Kors Hamilton Large Saffiano Leather Tote, $358
 |
| Stock image via Nordstrom |
Just to cleanse the palette from that first pricetag, here's a much more affordable investment bag. I lusted over this bag for years. I'm just sorry that I didn't purchase sooner! This image is Luggage, the color I own. I find that it matches everything. A word to the wise, go with the Saffiano Leather- it's waterproof. You can fit so much into this bag that it's the perfect office go-to. Available at Nordstrom, Macy's, and Michael Kors (among other places).
3. Kate Spade Sedgwick Place Large Phoebe Shoulder Bag ($478)
 |
| Stock image via Nordstrom |
I'll be honest, I prefer the prior Gold Coast pattern, but I don't see it for sale from any reputable retailers. So, I'm going to talk about the latest version of Kate Spade's quilted leather totes with chain handles. It recalls classic Chanel, at a fraction of the price. Pro tip: the outlets have their own pattern of quilted leather bags, and often you can score a large tote for less than $200. Available in a number of colors (I own black, but have often thought about the cream as well) at Nordstrom and Kate Spade.
4. Longchamp Le Pliage- Large Tote ($145)
I truly believe every woman needs a Longchamp Le Pliage Tote or two in her purse wardrobe. I've literally traveled the world with mine, and they're the ultimate commuter bag that you don't have to worry about. For those living under a rock, these foldable totes are water-resistant and can truly take anything you can throw at them. Although $145 may seem steep for a nylon tote, I trust the construction of these. Available at Nordstrom.
5. Louis Vuitton Speedy ($890-$910+)
The Speedy is a classic handbag by a classic manufacturer and a classic shape. You can decide the size, although I recommend either the 25, the smallest, or the 30 at largest. Otherwise, they start to droop too much and it looks like you're carrying luggage. If she can afford it, every woman who wants a LV should have one. Like my Balenciaga, I was able to find a pre-loved Speedy. I happen to love the patina on the handles more than the raw vachetta leather, so it works. I've had mine authenticated, so I don't have to worry. Don't mess with fake handbags, just buy directly from LV online. I'm showing the Damier Ebene pattern, but you can find the Speedy in so many patterns and sizes that there's one for everyone.
That's it for this week's Style Wednesday!
Dior Spring 2014 Trianon Collection (Part II-Nails): Bloom, Bouquet, Pampille, Porcelaine)
This is Part II of my look at my selections from Dior's Spring 2014 Trianon Collection. There are actually six polishes, scattered across several retailers. I picked up four of the six. Look for proper NOTD posts for each with full manis over the next month or so.
First, the two that I didn't buy. I did so with a lot of research:
Blossom (#132)- A sheer peach with gold glitter that swatches on the nail similar in tone to Chanel June. It is priced $24, and available via Nordstrom. See swatches and reviews from Temptalia, The Beauty Look Book, Pointless Cafe, and The RAEviewer.
Perle(#187)- A matte pink topcoat. Available via Dior, Nordstrom, Sephora, and Macys. See reviews and swatches from Temptalia, The Beauty Look Book, and Blushing Noir.
I did manage to track down the other four shades.
Bloom (#777)- a saturated, cool-toned fuschia. See today's NOTD. This is available via Saks and Macy's. I normally love Dior's formula, but Bloom might be the nicest nail polish I've ever dealt with, period. Its essentially a one-coat polish that self-levels.
Bouquet (#457)- A light coral creme. This is available via Sephora and Macys. It corresponds well with Rouge Dior Rose Crinoline for Dior's matchy-matchy lips and tips. Its formula is what you would expect from Dior, an excellent creme that is full coverage in two coats. Like Bloom, its not a terribly original shade to have in a spring collections, but still nice to have. It lacks the uber-formula of Bloom, but is still a nice coral.
Pampille (#192)- A pale, sheer, minty shimmer. This is a Nordstrom exclusive. This is tricky to work with, but I happen to enjoy it (unlike many other reviewers). On its own, you need 3-4 thin coats for coverage, although some VNL will still be present. It's also lovely as a topper on top of Porcelaine.
Porcelaine (#204) A light blue creme available at all Dior retailers. It has a thin creme formula, and requires 3 thin coats to achieve close to opacity. I struggled with this one- if I built it up enough to be opaque, I dented my nails within an hour. Still, this color is a standout and might be worth the struggle.
These are with 3 coats:
This completes my selections from Dior's Spring 2014 collection. Clearly, I went a bit crazy. Tomorrow, I bring you my selection from Guerlain's Spring 2014 collection.
First, the two that I didn't buy. I did so with a lot of research:
Blossom (#132)- A sheer peach with gold glitter that swatches on the nail similar in tone to Chanel June. It is priced $24, and available via Nordstrom. See swatches and reviews from Temptalia, The Beauty Look Book, Pointless Cafe, and The RAEviewer.
Perle(#187)- A matte pink topcoat. Available via Dior, Nordstrom, Sephora, and Macys. See reviews and swatches from Temptalia, The Beauty Look Book, and Blushing Noir.
I did manage to track down the other four shades.
Bloom (#777)- a saturated, cool-toned fuschia. See today's NOTD. This is available via Saks and Macy's. I normally love Dior's formula, but Bloom might be the nicest nail polish I've ever dealt with, period. Its essentially a one-coat polish that self-levels.
Bouquet (#457)- A light coral creme. This is available via Sephora and Macys. It corresponds well with Rouge Dior Rose Crinoline for Dior's matchy-matchy lips and tips. Its formula is what you would expect from Dior, an excellent creme that is full coverage in two coats. Like Bloom, its not a terribly original shade to have in a spring collections, but still nice to have. It lacks the uber-formula of Bloom, but is still a nice coral.
Pampille (#192)- A pale, sheer, minty shimmer. This is a Nordstrom exclusive. This is tricky to work with, but I happen to enjoy it (unlike many other reviewers). On its own, you need 3-4 thin coats for coverage, although some VNL will still be present. It's also lovely as a topper on top of Porcelaine.
Porcelaine (#204) A light blue creme available at all Dior retailers. It has a thin creme formula, and requires 3 thin coats to achieve close to opacity. I struggled with this one- if I built it up enough to be opaque, I dented my nails within an hour. Still, this color is a standout and might be worth the struggle.
These are with 3 coats:
This completes my selections from Dior's Spring 2014 collection. Clearly, I went a bit crazy. Tomorrow, I bring you my selection from Guerlain's Spring 2014 collection.
NOTD: Dior Bloom
Today's NOTD comes from Dior's Spring 2014 Trianon Collection. Bloom, a saturated fuschia, is available in the US via Dior, Saks, and Macys.
These photos are with two coats, plus Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab top coat. This mani lasted me about 5 days, and I felt like it cheered my hands up while I wore it.
Photo was taken indoors, with flash on my camera. Unfortunately, the weather dictates the poor lighting. Consider this a teaser for today's look at the Dior polishes!
These photos are with two coats, plus Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab top coat. This mani lasted me about 5 days, and I felt like it cheered my hands up while I wore it.
Photo was taken indoors, with flash on my camera. Unfortunately, the weather dictates the poor lighting. Consider this a teaser for today's look at the Dior polishes!
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Dior Spring 2014 Trianon Collection (Part I): Lips and Eyes
Today is the first of two posts of my selections from Dior's Spring 2014 Trianon Collection. According to Dior, this collection was inspired by Marie Antoinette- think the macaroons scene. Overall, the color story is mostly beautiful pastels, with bright, vivrant pink as an accent.
First, a quick peek at my many purchases from this collection. I've got eyes, lips, and nails.
Sorry for the dark photo, but I'm trying to make do. For the sake of post length, I'm going to split this overview into two. Tomorrow, I'll bring you through the 4 nail polishes.
Eyes:
In lieu of the quints (one, a Nordstrom exclusive, one available elsewhere) and the mono matte Diorshow Fusion Mono eyeshadows, my only selection is Rosee, a Nordstrom exclusive.
Rosee (#141), a Nordstrom exclusive, is a light, sparkling lilac shade. It's somewhat sheer but buildable. This requires a primer. I use the NARS Eye Primer, although Dior has introduced an eye primer with this collection that I'm really anxious to try out.
I had minimal problems with creasing with Rosee after about six hours, which is quite low wear time for a cream like this. However, I find the color light and unique enough to continue to work with.
Here is is, swatched:
Left: one thin coat. Right: Built up (3 coats)
Lips:
If there's one thing that I think of when I hear Dior, it's lip products. With the Trianon Collection, we're treated to two shades of Rouge Dior (Europe/Asia got 4!), two new Addict glosses (Europe/Asia got 4!), and a LE shade of the Lip Glow. I purchased one of each.
First, the Lip Glow. This is one of Dior's Hero Products. The regular Lip Glow provides the perfect shade of pink for every woman. This spring's LE Lip Glow is Coral. I absolutely love it, and wish it were a permanent addition to the line. It's been a hard item to find since it's such a great idea! I can see this being my go-to in the summer when I don't want a lot on my lips.
Here it is, swatched heavily:
This limited edition version of Lip Glow retails for $32. I purchased mine from Sephora, but it's also available on Dior's website.
The Trianon Collection also features two limited edition shades of the reformulated Rouge Dior lipsticks. I almost wish I hadn't looked at international blogs because I wish the US had received all four! I passed on Allegresse, a vivid fuchsia, simply because I knew I could wear it and had other bright lipsticks in my collection.
I went out on a limb with my selection. I purchased Rose Crinoline (#531), a beautiful creamy light coral. It's the lipstick that the model has on in the stunning promo photos. It's also the harder of the two shades to find in the US. It's a stretch for me because I have very pigmented lips. I'm still experimenting with ways to make it work.
Here it is, swatched (with flash):
Formula-wise, it's fantastic. I've heard Rouge Dior referred to as the BMW of luxury lipstick, and I believe it. This is such a dreamy color with wonderful formula that I'm happy to mess with concealer on my lips in order to make the color show up. It's a soft, utterly feminine color.
Rouge Dior lipsticks retail for $34. Rose Crinoline is a limited edition, although it's still available via Dior. I found mine at a local Macy's counter.
To match the two new Rouge Dior shades, Dior has also introduced two new limited edition shades of Dior Addict lipgloss, both retailing at $29.50 and widely available across Dior retailers. Petillante (#442) and Exquise (#772). I'll address both below.
To match my Rouge Dior and also because I felt it was the more versatile shade, I purchased Petillante (#442). It's a lovely light coral, shimmering gloss. For comparison, it's slightly pinker than Spring Ball. If you have Spring Ball already, this is similar enough that I feel comfortable advising you to skip it. Unfortunately, I didn't get a photo of the swatches in-store. However, the Dior SA was even surprised how close the two shades are.
Petillante had standard wear-time for a Dior Addict gloss, 2-3 hours. I like this because I can either wear it as a nude lip or on top of any number of lipsticks as an added umph.
Here it is, swatched alone. Left- one coat. Right- 2
Just to show how lovely it is with Rose Crinoline, here's a swatch:
Just lovely! A feminine, peach, shimmering lip perfect for spring. In terms of Dior's matchy-matchy trend, this goes well with Bouquet.
I promised to address the other Dior Addict gloss, Exquise (#772) earlier. It's a lovely, sheer hot fuchsia that looks hot and matches Bloom. I wanted to buy it right away, but decided to shop my stash instead. I came up with a possible substitute- Chanel Glossimer #169- Jalousie, originally released in the Roses Ultimes de Chanel Collection from 2012. I happened to be going to the mall in order to get my computer fixed, so I stopped by Sephora and swatched a quick comparison. Bottom line: if hot pink gloss is your jam, you'll be able to justify both. Otherwise, I'd argue that Jalousie is a plausible subsititute.
Left: Exquise Right: Jalousie
There are slight differences in terms of formula. Jalousie has more obvious shimmer, whereas Exquise is more of a straight-up clear tinted gloss. Both are amazing, but since I'm trying to fill in holes in my collection these days rather than collect duplicates, it's a pass for me. As a bonus, I've been rocking Jalousie the past couple of days, remembering how much I love it!
I think you can tell why I broke up this overview into two. Tomorrow, the nails from Dior Spring 2014.
First, a quick peek at my many purchases from this collection. I've got eyes, lips, and nails.
Sorry for the dark photo, but I'm trying to make do. For the sake of post length, I'm going to split this overview into two. Tomorrow, I'll bring you through the 4 nail polishes.
Eyes:
In lieu of the quints (one, a Nordstrom exclusive, one available elsewhere) and the mono matte Diorshow Fusion Mono eyeshadows, my only selection is Rosee, a Nordstrom exclusive.
Rosee (#141), a Nordstrom exclusive, is a light, sparkling lilac shade. It's somewhat sheer but buildable. This requires a primer. I use the NARS Eye Primer, although Dior has introduced an eye primer with this collection that I'm really anxious to try out.
I had minimal problems with creasing with Rosee after about six hours, which is quite low wear time for a cream like this. However, I find the color light and unique enough to continue to work with.
Here is is, swatched:
Lips:
If there's one thing that I think of when I hear Dior, it's lip products. With the Trianon Collection, we're treated to two shades of Rouge Dior (Europe/Asia got 4!), two new Addict glosses (Europe/Asia got 4!), and a LE shade of the Lip Glow. I purchased one of each.
First, the Lip Glow. This is one of Dior's Hero Products. The regular Lip Glow provides the perfect shade of pink for every woman. This spring's LE Lip Glow is Coral. I absolutely love it, and wish it were a permanent addition to the line. It's been a hard item to find since it's such a great idea! I can see this being my go-to in the summer when I don't want a lot on my lips.
Here it is, swatched heavily:
This limited edition version of Lip Glow retails for $32. I purchased mine from Sephora, but it's also available on Dior's website.
The Trianon Collection also features two limited edition shades of the reformulated Rouge Dior lipsticks. I almost wish I hadn't looked at international blogs because I wish the US had received all four! I passed on Allegresse, a vivid fuchsia, simply because I knew I could wear it and had other bright lipsticks in my collection.
I went out on a limb with my selection. I purchased Rose Crinoline (#531), a beautiful creamy light coral. It's the lipstick that the model has on in the stunning promo photos. It's also the harder of the two shades to find in the US. It's a stretch for me because I have very pigmented lips. I'm still experimenting with ways to make it work.
Here it is, swatched (with flash):
Formula-wise, it's fantastic. I've heard Rouge Dior referred to as the BMW of luxury lipstick, and I believe it. This is such a dreamy color with wonderful formula that I'm happy to mess with concealer on my lips in order to make the color show up. It's a soft, utterly feminine color.
Rouge Dior lipsticks retail for $34. Rose Crinoline is a limited edition, although it's still available via Dior. I found mine at a local Macy's counter.
To match the two new Rouge Dior shades, Dior has also introduced two new limited edition shades of Dior Addict lipgloss, both retailing at $29.50 and widely available across Dior retailers. Petillante (#442) and Exquise (#772). I'll address both below.
To match my Rouge Dior and also because I felt it was the more versatile shade, I purchased Petillante (#442). It's a lovely light coral, shimmering gloss. For comparison, it's slightly pinker than Spring Ball. If you have Spring Ball already, this is similar enough that I feel comfortable advising you to skip it. Unfortunately, I didn't get a photo of the swatches in-store. However, the Dior SA was even surprised how close the two shades are.
Petillante had standard wear-time for a Dior Addict gloss, 2-3 hours. I like this because I can either wear it as a nude lip or on top of any number of lipsticks as an added umph.
Here it is, swatched alone. Left- one coat. Right- 2
Just to show how lovely it is with Rose Crinoline, here's a swatch:
Just lovely! A feminine, peach, shimmering lip perfect for spring. In terms of Dior's matchy-matchy trend, this goes well with Bouquet.
I promised to address the other Dior Addict gloss, Exquise (#772) earlier. It's a lovely, sheer hot fuchsia that looks hot and matches Bloom. I wanted to buy it right away, but decided to shop my stash instead. I came up with a possible substitute- Chanel Glossimer #169- Jalousie, originally released in the Roses Ultimes de Chanel Collection from 2012. I happened to be going to the mall in order to get my computer fixed, so I stopped by Sephora and swatched a quick comparison. Bottom line: if hot pink gloss is your jam, you'll be able to justify both. Otherwise, I'd argue that Jalousie is a plausible subsititute.
Left: Exquise Right: Jalousie
There are slight differences in terms of formula. Jalousie has more obvious shimmer, whereas Exquise is more of a straight-up clear tinted gloss. Both are amazing, but since I'm trying to fill in holes in my collection these days rather than collect duplicates, it's a pass for me. As a bonus, I've been rocking Jalousie the past couple of days, remembering how much I love it!
I think you can tell why I broke up this overview into two. Tomorrow, the nails from Dior Spring 2014.
NOTD: Deborah Lippmann Let's Hear It For the Boy
Today's NOTD is another Deborah Lippmann selection that's a one-coat wonder!
Let's Hear It For the Boy is a sky blue creme that looks this amazing with just one coat.
This polish is the reason that I neglected to pick up the blue from Deborah Lippmann's spring 2014 collection. Having seen both in person, this is slightly lighter than the new release.
Let's Hear It For the Boy is a sky blue creme that looks this amazing with just one coat.
This polish is the reason that I neglected to pick up the blue from Deborah Lippmann's spring 2014 collection. Having seen both in person, this is slightly lighter than the new release.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Deborah Lippmann Spring 2014 Spring Reveries Collection- La Vie en Rose + Flowers in Her Hair
Today, I'm sharing my selections from Deborah Lippmann's Spring 2014 Collection, Spring Reveries.
Deborah Lippmann is my favorite polish-only line (I conveniently overlook the few attempts to lippies). When I'm not wearing Chanel or Dior, it's likely that you'll find Deborah Lippmann polish on my nails. Why mess with something that just works?
The Spring 2014 collection, Spring Reveries, is comprised of six gorgeous pastels that make you think instantly of spring. There are five cremes and one shimmer in the group. I selected two of the six: La Vie en Rose, a milky pink shimmer, and Flowers in Her Hair, a minty creme. All shades in this collection are listed as limited edition, so grab them quickly!
La Vie en Rose ($18) is described by the brand's site as "pastel petal pink (shimmer)". I'd agree with that characterization. When I saw the formula, I hoped that it would be the milky pink cousin to last year's Careless Whisper.
Flowers in Her Hair ($18) is described as "magnificent mint medley (creme). I couldn't pass up this shade when I saw it creep online on Nordstrom.com. I have a problem with collecting mint polishes but rarely actually wearing them! I have a feeling I'll wear this often, though.
I don't have nail wheels, and the light has been awful outside. So, please excuse these swatches. I'll do a real NOTD soon with these.
Inside, with flash:
They're both lovely, but totally different. I can see La Vie en Rose becoming one of my neutral staples.
Deborah Lippmann's Spring Reveries Collection is available via the brand's website, Sephora, and Nordstrom.
Next up: Dior Spring 2014 (Part 1). Yes, I went crazy over this one so I'm going to break it into two pieces.
Deborah Lippmann is my favorite polish-only line (I conveniently overlook the few attempts to lippies). When I'm not wearing Chanel or Dior, it's likely that you'll find Deborah Lippmann polish on my nails. Why mess with something that just works?
The Spring 2014 collection, Spring Reveries, is comprised of six gorgeous pastels that make you think instantly of spring. There are five cremes and one shimmer in the group. I selected two of the six: La Vie en Rose, a milky pink shimmer, and Flowers in Her Hair, a minty creme. All shades in this collection are listed as limited edition, so grab them quickly!
La Vie en Rose ($18) is described by the brand's site as "pastel petal pink (shimmer)". I'd agree with that characterization. When I saw the formula, I hoped that it would be the milky pink cousin to last year's Careless Whisper.
Flowers in Her Hair ($18) is described as "magnificent mint medley (creme). I couldn't pass up this shade when I saw it creep online on Nordstrom.com. I have a problem with collecting mint polishes but rarely actually wearing them! I have a feeling I'll wear this often, though.
I don't have nail wheels, and the light has been awful outside. So, please excuse these swatches. I'll do a real NOTD soon with these.
Inside, with flash:
They're both lovely, but totally different. I can see La Vie en Rose becoming one of my neutral staples.
Deborah Lippmann's Spring Reveries Collection is available via the brand's website, Sephora, and Nordstrom.
Next up: Dior Spring 2014 (Part 1). Yes, I went crazy over this one so I'm going to break it into two pieces.
NOTD: Lancome Gris Angora
Today's NOTD is an old favorite of mine- Lancome Gris Angora. It's a beautiful grey-purple creme. It was supposed to be a spring color, but I like it any time of the year. Swatches are two coats, no top coat.
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