QBB Hauls: My VIB Rouge Sale Picks (Weekend One)

I'm actually starting this post on Friday night- when the sale is less than 24 hours old. I'm trying to keep myself accountable and stay off of the website and out of the store for the rest of the weekend. I can't think of a better way to do that than to post my haul!

I did quite a bit of damage, and I think I'm probably done for this year in total. I won't get my hands on my online orders until I see my mother next weekend (it's always safer to send to her home, as she's retired and at home during the day. I last did that with the Lila palette.)- but that's where the bulk of my spending is headed.

Here's my in-store haul:

• Natasha Denona 02 Aeris Holiday Palette- I was side-eyeing both of the palettes but planned to purchase from Beautylish. I had the chance to play in-store and decided to pick this up after I ended up placing my Beautylish order before going to the store (the Gift Card event is the same as getting 20% off). I'm glad I did- the first shade in Joya is very similar to the shade I reach for in the Sunset palette and I didn't need something that close. I have a fun way to wear the blue- I just need to get my hands on the line's matte black shadow first.
• Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Vampira- Call this sale syndrome. KVD lipsticks are $12 and I love the one that I have. I'm not a fan of the liquid lip, but wanted to nab something in this shade.
• Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder- There! Something I said I was going to buy! I'm so excited to have this again. I used a full one last year.
• Hourglass Confessions Lipstick in - I'll be sharing my thoughts on the holiday set this week (Spoiler: I love it and can't stop wearing it). I plan from here on out to only buy the refills, but I wanted to grab a second body so I wasn't constantly changing just one. I didn't admit to wanting this.
• Sephora Collection Tape- A staple item that's out of stock online and that I don't immediately need. When I spotted it, I picked it up.
• NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment in - Not on my radar, but happy to test the formula with this 100-pt perk.

Now, here's a preview of what I purchased online (Sephora and Beautylish):

• Viseart Eyeshadow Palettes in Boheme, Bridal Satin, and Editorial Brights- I did it! I have all of the eyeshadow palettes (aside from the Grande!)!
• Guerlain Holiday 2017 Meteorites- I told you I needed this in my life
• Kat Von D Shade & Light Eye Contour Quad in Plum- Mine smashed beyond repair two days ago. And I didn't know that these were at Marshalls.
• Kat Von D Lock-It Eyeshadow Primer in Fair- I've been seeing a lot of raves about this product lately, and it's on sale. I couldn't help it.
• By Terry Mini Baume de Rose- D****t, I couldn't help it. My lips are on fire and it's just the first bit of November. I'll use the GC to lower the cost on the full-size- and carry this little dude in my makeup bag.

Aannnd... when going to Kiko to pick up a few items from the Holiday collection, I stopped off at another Sephora. Lolita. That's all I've got to say.

If you're a Rouge, what did you pick up? If you're waiting to shop next week, what's on your list?

QBB Hauls: Long Weekend Edition

Since today's a government holiday here in the US, I thought I'd share some of my recent purchases. Here's the best part: with my commitment to reviewing more permanent collection items, I am seeing myself work far enough into the future that there's going to be daily posts the rest of the year. I'm working way ahead of the current time because I write when I can. I'm always going to drop things for certain items.

Anyhow, let's talk about some recent purchases from this past weekend. I went a little crazy.


First up, I picked up a few items at Ulta:

I picked up the LORAC Mod Goddess Alter Ego Lipstick Set Vol II, LORAC Mod Goddess Alter Ego Lip Gloss Set Vol 1, Catrice The Nude Blossom Eyeshadow Palette, Essence the metals eyeshadows 01 Ballerina Glam & 04 Deep Sea Shimmer, and I picked up one of Ulta's BCA fundraiser products- the Beauty Notes notebook.



I also spent some time at my local Kohls:

I picked up the LORAC Mod Goddess Alter Ego Lipstick Set Vol III, LORAC Mod Goddess Alter Ego Lip Gloss Set Vol III, and spotted the Cargo Getaway Palette for 50% off. (By the way, I purchased this on Saturday and I'm already on Day #2 of testing because I want to get out a review ASAP at this price for you. Watch for that in a few days.)


I'm also huge fan of TJMaxx:

I was able to nab two more Ole Henricksen The Clean Truth Cleansing Cloths.  Believe it or not, I actually passed on some Kevyn Aucoin shadows... and I don't regret it. Those large packs of Ole cloths are such a great deal- they're 100 cloths for $9.99; the repackaged version is $27 online. I also grabbed another backup of one of my favorite conditioners- Strivectin Hair Volume Conditioner.


I made a K-Beauty skincare run:

That's 10 Hyaluronic Acid masks, 10 Tea Tree Masks, a HA Baby Face Spray, and some samples. I needed to stock up on masks, and had used up my facial spray. These are a lot more affordable than you'd think- they're just $1.50 each. I also picked up one Iope Bio Intensive Essence Mask to try.



I also stopped off at Sally Beauty:

Luckily, Seche Vite was on sale, and I grabbed the little guy for work. Anytime I'm in the store, I grab a pack of nail wheels. They also sell some of my favorite lashes- Ardell Baby Demis and Ardell Baby Whispies. I can and do cut full-sized ones down, but sometimes it's nice to have something that just fits without adjustment. I picked up a glass bowl for nails and got curious with Bitsy Custom Eyeshadows. They're ridiculously expensive, so I picked up a pan to test.


Lastly, I used a CVS coupon and struck gold, finding a beloved, discontinued brand.

Yes, that's five Enlite Skin Like Buttah body butters (75% off, $4.84 each), three Enlite Sole Struck foot and leg lotion (75% off, less than $5 each), two boxes of Enlite Check Your Bags at the Door eye masks (full priced, I pray these are making a comeback).

I picked up a backup of the bioEssence Matcha Foaming Cleanser I'm currently using (oops, that might spoil my upcoming, planned review. But I may wait until I've nearly finished the first bottle to post.)- what I actually planned to purchase with my 25% off coupon. When looking at the skincare, I got really curious about the beauty 360 Refine Self-Heating Clay Face Mask.


Just for reference, I've got orders from Ulta, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and ColourPop pending (the first two are the three items from ABH holiday I wanted), recently received one ColourPop order, visited Kiko in-store, and shopped the NYX F&F sale. That's on top of the plethora of other posts I've already got queued or have been photographed.

If there's anything in particular you'd like to see, please let me know in the comments!

QBB Hauls: Ulta 21 Days of Beauty Wrap-Up

Get yourself a drink and a snack, because this is going to be a long one.

Let's wrap up the Ulta 21 Days of Beauty. I was going to do this week-by-week but held off.


Beauty Steals Purchased Week One:

Urban Decay Naked Flushed Trios (9/8), Ofra Beverly Hills Highlighter (9/8), CoverFX Perfect Setting Powder (9/9)

Here's what I said in my Week One Preview:

What I'm planning to pick up from Week One: Tarte Double Duty Beauty Lip Sculptor Lip Gloss/Lipstick (September 6), Too Faced Sketch Marker Liquid Eyeliner (September 7), Ofra Highlighters (September 8), CoverFX Setting Powder (September 9)

Here's why I didn't purchase 50% of what I anticipated. I swatched the shade range for the Tarte lip products and didn't see anything unique to my collection. I then did some research on the Too Faced eyeliners and decided to purchase two of my favorite liner Week Two insted.

Hot Buys Purchased Week One:

bareMinerals GenNude Liquid Lipstick- Swank, Ulta Demi-Matte Foundation, Ulta Adjustible Coverage Powder Foundation, Ulta Mineral Foundation

Beauty Steals Purchased Week Two:

Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Precision Eyeliner (9/10), NARS NARSissist Cheek Palette (9/10), It Cosmetics Brushes for Ulta #115 (9/16), Dose of Colors Matte Liquid Lipsticks (9/16)

Hot Buys Purchased Week Two: Ulta Body Wash & Body Butter- Nectarine Rose (given as a gift, hence why I can't show)


Here's what I said during my Week Two Preview:

What I'm planning to pick up from Week Two: NARSisst Cheek Studio Palette (September 10), Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Precision Longwear Eyeliner (September 10), Too Faced Shadow Insurance Eyeshadow Primer (September 11), Urban Decay Naked Skin Color Correcting Fluid (September 14), ABH Brow Powder (September 15), It Cosmetics Celebration Foundation (September 16), It Brushes for Ulta (September 16), Dose of Colors Liquid Lipsticks (September 16)

Here's why I passed on a few items. I looked at the amount of primers I own and decided I didn't need the Too Faced. I'm also working on using up my color correctors, so purchasing UD ones doesn't make sense. If I want to try one in the future, I'll be ok paying full price. I don't need any more brow powders and was away from my computer most of that day, and I have too many face powders at the moment-hence passing on the It powder.

Beauty Steals Purchased Week Three:

Stila Huge Extreme Lash Mascara (9/18), Tarte Tarteist Lash Paint Mascara (9/22), Benefit Ka-BROW! (9/23), Butter London Glazen Eye Gloss (9/23)- and the Ulta Hot Soap (Hot Buy)



Here's what I said during my Week Three Preview:

What I'm Planning to Purchase from Week Three: MAC Lipstick (September 20), Laura Geller Balance n Brighten Baked Color Correcting Powder Foundation (September 21), Tarte Tarteist Lash Paint Mascara (September 22), Benefit Ka-Brow! Eyebrow Color (September 23), Butter London Glazen Eye Gloss (September 23)

Here's why I did some major passing. I found my Velvet Teddy, so I didn't need to repurchase. I also decided to stop buying powders.

Don't worry, I bought a lot of other stuff. I'm stocked for items to review for months.

QBB Hauls: Some Recent Retail Therapy

Although I've honestly been purchasing less items as of late, I do have some recent purchases to share with you from the past week or so.

Let's start at the drugstore- that's where I've been spending most of my beauty money these days. And let's start with the makeup products.

Wet 'n Wild Color Blast Mascara- Purple- I always grab a couple of these colored mascaras to keep in my stash throughout the year. I'll also likely pick up one of the pink ones soon.
Revlon Lash Glue- I never see this in-stock so I wanted to give it a shot. Stay tuned- I'm hoping to wear lashes again.
Milani Conceal & Perfect 2-in-1 Concealer & Foundation- I found the two new shades (00A & 00B) at my local Walmart and couldn't resist. I already tested one day so far and have thoughts. Lots of them. Look for a full review in the coming weeks.
Kokie Skin Perfect HD Foundation 10C- None of my local stores carry this brand, so when I spotted it at a store an hour from home I had to pick it up. I'm always up for a foundation. I'm actually testing this for the first time when putting this post together...
Kokie Cushion Liquid Concealer 10C- The wand concealer was too dark for me, so I wanted to give this a try. I've never tried a cushion concealer before!
Maybelline The City Mini Palette Matte About Town- This is a Walgreens-exclusive palette; I have been hunting for the x Shayla collab but have been out of luck. And trust me- I've been at every local drugstore this week.
Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear 219 Strobe Light- HOLO.

Yes to Blueberries- this is one of my favorites, and I spotted this for under $5!
Pure & Gentle Wipes- I've never tried these before but they were under $1 so it was worth picking them up to try. Worst case scenario, I'll use these for swatches.

BioMiracle Skin Therapy Real Fresh Matcha Foam Cleanser- Spoiler alert, I finished my non-hydrating foamy cleanser. This caught my eye at CVS and I couldn't resist. I've used this twice so far and will be reviewing it.

Daylogic Solid Brush Cleanser- Not a facial cleanser, but this could be an amazing buy. I go through Sephora Collection Solid Brush Cleansers very quickly. They're only $2 less than the BeautyBlender solid cleanser they're duping. This retails for $7.99, and is eligible for your RiteAid discounts. With my Gold discount, this cost $6.39. Stay tuned on my thoughts for that!

Le Petit Marseillais Mandarin & Lime Extra Gentle Shower Gel- I've been wanting to try this for awhile and the price was right. I have a bunch of sweet shower gels in rotation right now so this is a great counterbalance.


Now, let's talk about some TJMaxx bargains I've been digging up lately.

bareMinerals Some Like it Nude 8-piece Mini Gen Nude Radiant Lipstick Collection ($19.99)- I probably overpaid for this but I've been loving the bareMinerals lip products in my collection as of late. Look for a review of this in the coming weeks.

Ole Henriksen Nurture Me Cleansing Cloths ($4.99)- I love these makeup removing wipes, especially now that I tend to do my eyes first and need to use a cloth each morning. They feel a little more like skincare than most other wipes.

Marc Jacobs Style Eye-Con No 3 112 The Mod ($12.99)- This is the third one of these three-pan palettes that I've picked up. This trio produces a grey or smoky look.

The BrowGal Eyebrow Pencil 02 ($2.99)- I received a product from this brand in a box I'm not supporting right now (post to come), and at this price- why not?

Color Club Nail Lacquer ($1.99)- Gimme all the holos.

Finally, I broke down and went to Ulta.

Tarte Tartiest Lash Adhesive- Fingers crossed, this might be the answer. I miss lashes.

Ardell Faux Mink 812 & Wispies 602- I've already worn the Faux Minks once (yes, they're cut down) and the 602s are my jam.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow in Medium Brown- I've been into lighter brows as of late and needed to pick up a Dipbrow

Flower Nail Files- to meet a minimum for a coupon.

Revolution Makeup Renaissance Lipstick- Yes, they look like Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks- which I love. I can't wait to try this out.

Revolution Makeup Brow Revolution- I've heard this is similar to the Wunderbrow, which I've been too cautious to pick up yet.

I have a few other items that I'm currently testing that you'll likely see posts on first. But it's nice to be back- these are non-iPhone photos, shot with my Sony and some minimal correcting on my new PC. So, I'm back! I'm still hopeful to rescue some of the photos on my old Mac- particularly all of my Viseart palettes.

What have you picked up lately?

QBB Hauls: QBB's Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2017 Purchases

Get a snack, or a glass of wine, or a coffee... or something. This will be a long one. Admittedly, that photo's a bit misleading and not nearly as much fun as you're thinking. I also have multiple online orders coming. The extra day of 10 points per dollar made the money fly!

Luckily, I'm not a Level 4 Cardholder (*cough* barely), so I got access to the sale on Thursday July 13. I couldn't get to a store, and the website was so messed up that I got a crack at everything on Friday July 14.

Let's talk about my overall philosophy and shopping strategy. I don't usually do well in terms of clothes/shoes because the selection is very small as a plus sized person. I also have wide feet; there are 23 pairs of shoes to pick from. And one or two flats. That's it. Not complaining- just stating that I don't get to play in all of the clothes like the other bloggers who post hauls. I also rarely purchase a handbag.

I look at the sale as a great way to nab some beauty goodies, stock up on essentials, grab some holiday gifts, and maybe get some clothes? Last year spoiled me. I did so well with the clothes that I kept grabbing more items (I think I counted one suit, 2 tunic shirts, 2 layering shirts, 1 sweater, 1 dress, 2 t-shirts); 2017 was an epic bust for me. There were only 3 items I seriously considered. (I do have some clothes coming though.. we'll talk about that later.)

Ramble much? Here we go.

Beauty Exclusives:

1. NARS Angel Pride Cheek Palette ($59)


YES! I have been waiting to purchase this for months, since I saw a sneak peak on Instagram. I am so happy to own this for a number of reasons- I'll get into them in my review of the product. I was so impatient to get my hands on this that I actually did buy online, pick up in store to make sure I got it.

2. Bobbi Brown Bobbi on Trend Lips Collection-Nude ($50)

I went into this with my mind open- I was looking at the non-MAC lip kits and planned to purchase at least one (and apparently I was in a nudes mood too!). I can't wait to dive into this kit and review it for you ASAP because I already have thoughts.

3. Laura Mercier Read My Lips Duo- Roses ($28)

This was a "second trip to another store" purchase. I recently rediscovered that I adore this lipstick formula; the roses kit seemed to be a slightly darker but still natural shade for fall.

4. MAC Look in a Box Saint No Angel Mini Lip Kit ($26.50)

I generally pass on MAC kits during Anniversary Sale. The mini lipsticks. I give up. I wanted to grab a couple of the minis that are coming out soon, and they're going to be $10 each. For $26.50, this was two minis and two mini neutral glosses. These have purse dweller status all over them.

5. Winky Lux Flower Balm Favorites Set ($22, currently sold out)

Remember this fun brand (I previously reviewed the primer here)? They're known for these flower balms, so I was stoked to see these in my local store. They surely would've melted en route. Even though the locator always said that it wasn't in stock, both of the local stores I visited had this on Day #2 of normal Early Access.

6. Winky Lux Your Bestie the Nudes Trio ($22)

I think I mentioned in my prior review that I wanted to try some of the color products- here are some nude lip products to try!


Things I didn't buy yet but might still:

Here are a few others that I may end up with before the sale ends. I like to pace myself. Bobbi Brown Bobbi on Trend Eyes & Cheeks Collection ($98), beautyBlender air.port.pro Kit ($35), Guerlain Terracotta After Summer Chic Tropic Bronzing Powder ($78), Sigma Beauty Brilliant & Spellbinding Eyeshadow Palette ($25), Foreo Luna Mini ($66), Evian Facial Water Spray 6-pack ($21)

Home:

I actually cut down this year. I only picked up three of the Kennebunk Home 'Bliss' throws ($25.90), one of my favorite things you can buy at the sale. One of them is a gift. Seriously, these are incredible and I always keep at least 4-5 brand-new on hand. They make incredible hostess gifts, and I've been known to send guests home with a throw that they've fallen in love with.

The blush item isn't a throw- it has turned out to be my favorite thing. They are now selling Kenebunk Home 'Bliss' blankets ($38.90-45.90)! You see one here, but I have a second one coming (in gold), and will likely pick up two more- one as a gift, one for guests here. They're truly delicious. Note last year's blush throw in the back!

I also purchased another item online- the Cathy's Concepts monogrammed bedside carafe because it looked so chic. I didn't actually buy a Q, but it does look adorable:

This could also make an amazing gift.

Things I didn't buy yet but might still:

I still have a couple of home items I'm thinking about. Although it's sold out right now, I'm going to nab the Levtex Flamingo Accent Pillow the instant it's back ($25), and I'm looking to nab some more blankets.

Shoes:

I purchased a pair of Sam Edelman 'Felicia' ballet flats ($99.95). They're not a part of the sale, but I planned to pick up a different pair of flats that are part of the sale- the 'Raisa' Bow Flats ($79.90). They come in wide, but they don't carry them in-store. I asked to try a different shoe from the brand to see the variance between medium and wide width; I didn't want to take off the ballet flats because they're the most comfortable I've ever had on my feet. Although not in the sale, I still got 10 points per dollar with my card- or approximately $10 back. I'm probably going to use my massive Note to buy more shoes on August 1!

Accessories:

I picked up two items- one pair of earrings and a purse. The earrings aren't necessarily part of this year's sale, but it's incredible that they popped up.

Anyone remember these from last year? These are the silver/silver Kendra Scott 'Addie' earrings ($39.90, sale price). Although this silhouette in gold/gold and gold/silver, gold/rose gold, and gold/gunmetal are available every day, the silver frame is something that was a Nordstrom exclusive. I managed to nab the gunmetal last year, now I'm still on the hunt for the rose gold version. I couldn't believe it when I saw these in the Early Access tent!

I passed on the other Kendra items because, aside from the Rae (which I don't like that much to be honest- I have two and never wear them), I could walk into my local boutique and make them any day.

I also ordered a purse! Although I'm saving for a Neverfull, this is quite the opposite. I couldn't resist this Leith Suede Clutch in Mustard (now gone from the site!). It's perfect for a black and gold loving girl like me, and looks to be so versatile. At just $49.90, I couldn't stop myself.

Things I didn't buy yet but might still:

I made the mistake of trying a bag on and can't shake it. If the Longchamp Le Pilage Cuir Leather Tote ($354.90) is still around in two weeks, I might purchase it. It's haunting me. I've also been looking for the Longchamp Le Pilage Expandable Tote ($129.90) but have to remind myself that I don't travel enough to justify it.

Clothing:

Sadly, this is all an online haul because of the lack of Encore products in-store.
I have five Make and Model T-shirts coming. I got all three colors of this scoop-neck version.

I also purchased both solid V-necks (because the rainbow would run right through my chest, and...NO on that.

As an aside, this isn't actually in the sale, but it's on sale and related- I purchased this pair of Make + Model lounge pants on sale:

I did purchase some items from the lingerie section, but I'm not about to show them to you!

Things I didn't buy yet but might still:

This Two by Vince Camuto blouse ($65.90) is way too expensive but the flannel is so soft. Likewise, this Elisa J Ruffle Drape dress is adorable but I have nowhere to wear it! The idea of a hooded Barefoot Dreams sweater is also intriguing ($76.90).

What have you picked up so far?

QBB Hauls: Recent Stuff I've Been Buying

For some reason, the internet loves hauls. They make sense for me a little more on YouTube than on a blog, but I'm happy to keep sharing. These make an easy second post, and allow you the ability to weigh in on what I review- all you have to do is ask!

I mentioned this yesterday, but any day that starts with a haul/formulaic post, you'll be getting a second post at noon or 5PM EDT. With today being a holiday, it's a special post.

Because of the long weekend here in the States, I've been spending time with friends, attending a couple of bashes (style post later this week), and doing a lot of shopping. I'm writing this post on Monday afternoon, so when I refer to days- consider it a current reference.

Friday Night Haul City

I had plans for rooftop drinks on Friday night, but my boss kicked us all out of the office early. I had a couple of hours to spare and I work in such a dangerous area- Sephora, Nordstrom Rack, Walgreens, CVS, and Macys are all within walking distance. So, Friday Night Haul City before drinks! I actually came home to find a couple of these at my door.

New drugstore goodies: Maybelline Master Precise Ink Metallic Liquid Eyeliner- Violet (I just wanted to try one of these), and all 3 colors (2 new) of the L'Oreal Infallible The Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner- Black, Brown, Grey.

Glitter: 2 x NYX Glitters

Inglot: 3 x Inglot AMC Pure Pigment Eyeshadows

Sephora: 2x Stellar Stardust Lip Powder Trios (as enabled by BeautyTalk), Natasha Denona Blush Duo #15

Stila: 2x orders... In a Firenze & Next to Notte


I should mention that I placed a rather large Beautylish order earlier that morning. Whoops.

Saturday dawned hot and sticky. On my way to a bare-faced coffee run, I made an early AM TJMaxx run and really got some amazing things-

100 Count Ole Henriksen Truth on the Go Wipes, Strivectin Hair- Volume Shampoo & Conditioner, Too Faced Melted Lipstick in Melted Marshmallow (a real score because the component is pristine. Win!), and Milani Bella Rouge Eyeshadow

Sunday was an errands day, but I did pick up a few things.

Between Ulta, Rite Aid, and Walmart, I picked up a ton of drugstore items: all 5 L'Oreal Infallible Paints Metallics Shadows, 2x NYX glitters, the rainbow Maybelline highlighter, 2x Wet n Wild pencil sharpeners, 1x Maybelline liner, Walmart's version of cleansing wipes (for swatches), and a Rimmel Oil Gloss.

I made it out of Sephora for $20: an Almond foot mask & Cake and Bake Sponge.

Kiko called me like I was a lost child with a huge sale: 5x Water Shadows (review coming), 2x Gel Duo nail polishes (including the white I put on for Monday's party), a mini nail polish, and one of the items from the latest capsule collection.

Oh yeah, I also picked up the BH Carli Bybel palette.



I took yesterday (Monday) off to enjoy a nice, long weekend. I made plans to meet up with a friend for a casual lunch before heading off to a rooftop white party (note: this is a party in which all people were asked to wear white head-toe and not a reflection on race).

We were in one of my favorite local areas, which is a retail/food/living mix. My favorite jewelry boutique (Kendra Scott) is in this area... so the spending juices started early. (Keep in mind that there are plenty of days that I don't spend any money- this was a holiday weekend.

Before lunch, my friend enabled me to pick up the Kendra Scott Rose Quartz Kiri necklace, Bright Red Andy Bracelet, and Goldstone Jana bracelet. (The Bright Red Elles were a subsequent Nordstrom purchase- with notes- as was the MyTagalongs case).

We made a quick post-lunch Target run- I was able to replenish my Pixi + Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse, and grab the L'Oreal Infallible Paints Matte in Festival, and picked up the ELF Cream eyeliner in Teal Tease (which I've been on the hunt for)

On my way home, I stopped at TonyMoly to pick up some masks- I used my last Tea Tree mask on Sunday, trying to combat a breakout. I picked up: 5 x Tea Tree masks and 2 x Green Tea masks.

I also swung by SiJCP and picked up Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow in Violet Vixen (yassssss I have them all!!!) that I had on hold. I then scoped the sale section and nabbed the KvD Studded Kiss Lipstick in Lolita 2 and Shade & Light Quad in Smoke. They had new 100 pt-perks up: Tarte Tartiest Pro Glow Liquid Highlighter in Stunner & Becca Ever-Matte Powerless Primer


I'm now just waiting for my purchases last week to trickle in.

Have you hauled anything fun lately?

Happy Fourth!

QBB Hauls: Inside my Ulta 20% Haul

Just a quick first post today to share my Ulta 20% off haul with you and a funny pattern that I find myself following. Yes, First Post. A quick aside- I have a number of formulaic posts that I want to cover at the end of the month (favorites, empties, #ProjectUseThemALL, etc). Since I have so many products to review, these will be double post days. Same goes for this haul.

OK, back to the topic at hand. It's widely known that Ulta sends 20% off coupons to Platinum members 4ish times per year (I feel like it's more like every other month, to be honest) that include Prestige. Even though I'd just redeemed 4000 points ($250) and spent another $200 this past week (Over $100 of that was Naked Heat and 2 liners, with overnight shipping), I couldn't resist the coupon.

My haul reveals a lot about my normal behavior during these coupons- and the VIB sales.

• Drybar Southern Belle Mousse: Oh thank you whatever deity you believe in. I've been struggling with a mousse I detest since February but have been too stubborn to purchase a fave instead. Since I had the coupon, I finally bought one of my two all-time faves.
• Urban Decay Naked Skin Concealer in Light Neutral: This travel-sized concealer was a strategic purchase. When I was self-tanned earlier in the month, I found that my concealers were too light. I wanted to get a slightly darker concealer, in a small amount. Check. I also can't remember why I purchased and returned Fair over a year ago.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Gloss in Grape Jelly: The fifth and final purchase from the new releases; look for a review on Friday/Saturday (I have it about 80% written/photographed but can't remember what day I'm posting it on).
• Urban Decay Subversion Primer: I literally had this on my shopping list because it's time to say good-bye to my current tube. Perfectly timed coupon
• Tarte Shape Tape Concealer in Light: Yes, I now own 3 shades of this concealer (Fair, Fair Beige, and Light if you're counting). When I was self-tanned, I missed this so badly that I wanted to purchase a slightly darker shade. That's love.
• Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter and Glow Liquid Eyeshadow in Smoldering Satin: This is the next-to-last shade I needed to purchase. Look for me to feature all 15 on the site soon.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Cream Contour Kit in Fair: This is an item I was interested in, and wanted to put to test for the blog.
• Tarte CC Undereye Concealer in Light/Medium: I've almost finished my second? third? one of these and it's a staple product for me. Easy purchase.

If the theme isn't prevalent, let me explain. Three of eight products were straight repurchase/restock. Only one of eight was an entirely new product to me, as I owned four of eight products in a different shade at some point.

This is what I do during these sales- repurchase items I'm almost out of or other shades of products I like. Does anyone else do this-skip on new items largely to restock?

What did you get, or what are you planning to get with your 20% off?

QBB Hauls: QBB Loves K-Beauty

I'm going to spill a little tea on myself with today's QBB Hauls post. Even though the trend has been going strong for awhile, I've been loving K-Beauty for longer than most. I live "near"a robust K-town communities and have been going to Korean beauty shops for years. I have numerous stores that I can visit- and I do. I limit myself to a trip every 2 months or so because I spend so much money when I go!

I do have some Korean makeup, but the trip last weekend was to restock my enormous sheet mask collection. In the past two months, I've used most of my firming and brightening masks. Even though I don't live that far, I try to stock up and limit my trips.

Let's start with my purchases at The Face Shop. It's a mostly natural product store that focuses on skincare. I have loved their masks (which are usually on sale) for years. Their Real Nature Blueberry mask is one of my favorites on the market and I always have at least 5-10 on hand. For real.

• I picked up a package of their Mild Cotton Pads ($2 for 80, they're great for toner!)
• I purchased 6 of their The Solution face masks (they were running B5 G1free): 3 x Vitamin C, 2 x Pearl, 1 x Hyaluronic Acid
• I purchased 12 of their Real Nature face masks (B5 G1): 2x Peony, 1x Lotus, 1x Lily, 1x Green Tea, 1x White Tea, 1x Blueberry, 1x Acai Berry, 1x Avocado, 1x Rice, 1x Kelp, 1x Pomegranate
• I also got a few samples: Eco Natural Sun SPF 50, Chia Seed Fresh Cleansing Foam, Rice Water Cleansing Foam, Cucina Hand Cream

For those that think pricing is similar to Ulta or Sephora, nope. Your average face mask in legit K-Beauty stores is between $1.50-3.

Next, I headed to Aritaum, one of my favorite stores. For those who don't know, this is operated by AmorePacific's parent company. You can get Iope, Laneige, Aritaum, Mamonde, and Sulwhasoo products at my local store.

• I've never seen the bio cellulose masks before. They're a bit pricier than the average mask here ($3), but they're apparently jelly masks. I was intrigued. I picked up the soothing & lifting versions.
• Same goes for the cel: cushion mask. I picked up the moisturizing version to try.
• Next, I picked up 15 of their regular sheet masks (B10G5). At $1.50, I find this to be the best deal on sheet masks around- you can customize and mix and match. There are far more versions, but these are my favorites. I picked up 3 x Vitamin C, 2x Tea Tree, 4 x Hyaluronic Acid, 3 x Green Tea, 1 x Pearl, 1 x Lemon, 1 x Pomegranate.
• I also received a few samples of Pure Artemisia Watery Calming Cream.
• I picked up two of the Baby Face Mists. I swear by the Hyaluronic Acid (blue), and I'm eager to try the Tea Tree (green) this summer)

Lastly, I went to a store that should be familiar to most my readers: TonyMoly. I feel bad for those of you without access to their stores, because you're getting ripped off! Let me explain.

• I picked up a 10-pack of my favorite Pore Care Red Wine Sheet Mask. This (and the Baby Face sprays) were the reasons I went to the stores in the first place. I always purchase this in a 10-pack.
• I purchased two of the Master Lab face masks- EGF Wrinkle Care and Centella Asiatica. I've loved all of the ones in this line that I've tried, so I can't wait to try these two.
• I picked up two masks from the Tonymoly x Pokemon Collab: Naong (Vanilla) and Kkobugi (Lotus).
• I'm interested in trying the My Little Pet Wrinkle Line Patch because my smile lines are becoming an issue.
• I received the Golden Mushroom Mask Sheet (coming soon) as a gift with purchase to try.

Let's talk math and how retailers in the US are ripping off consumers who aren't aware on these masks. My beloved Red Wine Pore Care mask retails for $4.00 each at Ulta, which is where many learn about the brand. At the store, these masks retail for $2.00 each if you purchase individually. If you purchase a 10-pack (in a bag with bar code), it's $19.00. So I could pay $4.00 each at Ulta or drive 20 minute to the store and pay $1.90 each. This is how I use so many masks!

What are your favorite K-Beauty masks?

QBB Hauls: Recent TJMaxx/Marshalls Finds

Welcome to another QBB Hauls! I've been lurking around my local TJMaxx a lot and have been finding some real beauty gems there. It's not only drugstore brands- it's also high end. But let's start on the drugstore side of things.

After purchasing two of their baked palettes and watching a number of YouTube videos, I was so pumped to spot some of the larger BH Cosmetics palettes at my local TJMaxx! It ironically happened right after I was browsing their website and didn't know what to purchase.

I found two of the Contour & Blush palettes (1 &2), 2 of the blush palettes (Glamorous & Professional), and the Foundation & Concealer 2 Palette.  The total price for these 5 palettes? $25.49 plus tax! Admittedly the Foundation/Concealer Palette is too dark for me but I wanted to play and test the formula. I can bronze/contour for sure.

Moving on, let's talk some other makeup finds. 

I purchased the Style Essentials All About Glow Palette on clearance for $3 because I wanted to test the quality. Likewise, the Absolute New York True Palettes Element looked like foiled shadows in gemstone shades for $6. I just want to give it a chance. I also spotted a Milani Liquid Eye liner in Brown for $1.99 near my checkout line. For the same price, I also nabbed ELF Tinted Moisturizer in Porcelain for the same price.

Oh yeah, I think I forgot something. That's one of the Marc Jacobs Style Eye-Con No 7 palettes in 202 The Tease (the purple one) for $19.99. I've been able to find two of these over the past three weeks. I spotted the MJ nail polishes for $9.99 each but passed.

You can also find some awesome skincare deals at TJMaxx, if you didn't know.

I got a bareMinerals Good Clean Fun cleanser set on clearance for $10, A 6-pack of Precision Beauty nail files (flamingo!), 2 Flamingo clippers from Precision Beauty,  a package of Ole Henriksen Clean Truth Cleansing Cloths, 1 Yes to Grapefruit Lip Balm, a 2-pack of Lavanilla deodorants (for $16.99!), Schmidt's Rose & Vanilla deodorant.

Last up are the masks I nabbed at TJMaxx.  I've got SpaLife Miraculous Moisturizing Hand Gloves (2 pairs, $3.99), SpaLife Under Eye Strips (12 pack, $2.99), and a random Pore-Shrinking mask from CVS. Whoops.

Have you found anything interesting at TJMaxx recently?

QBB Hauls: Various Drugstore Fun

Today's QBB Hauls is lots of fun drugstore products that I've been purchasing lately. I'm waiting for the big L'Oreal and Maybelline releases... I've got Walgreens rewards at the ready!

• Now, this first one isn't from the drugstore, but it's drugstore priced. If you want to know why I purchased it, watch this video. This is the Docolor Multi-function Contour & Highlight Brush- it's a drugstore dupe of the NARS Ita.
• I discovered Milani Rosa Romantica Baked Powder Blush- I think this is a new shade? It's #13. I found it at CVS and it's lovely. In the packaging, it appears to be lighter than many of the other shades. I decluttered most of the blushes from this collection because they were all dark, so this is exciting! Update: After writing the post but before posting, I opened and swatched. This is so a highlight, not a blush.
• Next up, two new Revlon releases. I have the Revlon Youth FX Fill & Blur Concealer in 01 Fair and the Youth FX Fill & Blur Foundation in 110 Ivory. Even though this won't match my body, I'm still curious to try it. At the price (really high for drugstore), I didn't want to get multiple shades.
• I finally picked up the Milani Contour & Highlight duo in 01 Fair because I'm going to try more creams (at least I want to).
• Not from my local drugstore, but I finally got my hands on the L'Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara! I can't wait to try it out and report back.
• Lastly, one of my local Walgreens was getting rid of L'Oreal Color Riche Extraordinaires. I like the formula with the one that I have, so I picked up 101 Rose Melody and 601 Nude Ballet for 50% off each.
• I also picked up Sally Hansen Miracle Gel 589 Punk-ish Purple at 50% off. I was obsessed with this formula last summer.

Now, a little bit of skincare/hair goodness/self-tanner.

I've got Yes to Blueberries (I love this), Yes to Primrose Oil makeup removing towels, Hask Greek Yogurt Color Protection Deep Conditioner Mask, Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer, and Jergens Natural Glow Wet Skin Moisturizer (I can't wait to try this!)

I also have something else that I didn't get in the drugstore but it does fit.

Isn't the exterior packaging beautiful? The studio lights make it dance.

I caved when Wet 'n Wild said there were only 50 kits left. It took forever to get it. I ordered on 23 May and didn't get until 3 June. This is my first purchase from Wet 'n Wild direct, and I'm not sure about future purchases. I can get the brand at the end of my road (literally), so unless it's a special kit I'm not sure because I'm so impatient. Still, this is just special.

For those who have been living under a rock, the Wet 'n Wild Unicorn Glow Collection.

Please let me know if you'd like me to review any of these items.

What have you been purchasing from the drugstore lately?

QBB Hauls: MAC, Aveda & NYX

Here's another QBB Hauls for you today! This is a combination of goodies from MAC, CCO, Nordstrom, Aveda, and NYX. I'm blessed to have access to so many stores.

Let's start with MAC goodies. These are from three places-the eyeshadow is a Back2MAC, one foundation is from Nordstrom, and the other from CCO.

Why so much foundation? It's because your QBB is on the self-tanner train as of late and nothing works anymore!

From L-R, you have: Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation- NW18 (I own NW13 and that's actually a bit light in general. When I'm not self-tanned, I can mix the two until I repurchase NW15), Pro Longwear Foundation in NW15 (I've been matched to NW13 normally), Little MAC Pigment- Rich Purple (who can resist a $5 pigment, right?), and Eyeshadow in New Crop (a B2M splurge- I'm slowly getting all of the Bangin' Brilliant shades since they refuse to put them out in pan form).

Let's take a small haircare detour from the darker foundation theme for a minute.  I'm going to post a hair routine in the next month, but I do use color conditioners from Aveda as a huge part of my routine. They were 20% off, so I nabbed both. Black Malva is dark and cool, whereas Clove is brown and warm. I also had a coupon for a mini beautifying body moisturizer.


Moving on to my stop at NYX (that store is so dangerous for me, as is Kiko!), I've got 2 foundations to play with. I really feel like the lighting is off in their store because these foundations seem so dark at home.

L-R: Invincible Foundation in 02 Fair, Cosmic Metals Lip Creme- 15 Retro Harmony, Slide On Glide On, Stay On & Definitely a Turn On Waterproof Liners- Glitzy Gold, Jewel, Purple Blaze, Wonder Pencil in Light, and Stay Matte But Not Flat Foundation in 17 Warm.

Have you picked up anything from these brands recently?