Quick Five: Lately Edition

Although my monthly beauty favorites posts are a nice reflection of where I am, beauty-wise, I love the idea of being able to share with you what's on my mind in an more immediate fashion.  Here are 5 things I'm loving lately.


1. I'm turning into a blush fiend. It has typically been the product I bought and used the least of, but I've been on a blush buying spree and experimentation tear. I think I've bought six blushes over the past 30 days when I usually don't buy six per year. I've also learned to love a bit of a bolder blush.

2. I've been working on my nail art skills the last week or so.  I recently had a chance to attend a master class (more later) and I picked up some new nail art skills.  Don't expect to see me blog about them anytime soon, as I'm truly a neophyte.

3. Usually, spring means bright lips for me. Lately, I've been loving a simple yet natural pink lip.  Some of my favorites are Butter London Lippy in Berry Whipped, Rouge Coco Shine in Boy, and Trish McEvoy Essential Balm in Gorgeous Pink.

4. My new tv obsession?  House of Cards. I'm a little behind the curve, but I only re-subscribed to Netflix recently. It's incredible.

 5. High end perfumes. Wine and perfume are two things that I lack the sophistication to explain "notes" in, but I know if I like them or not.  I'm currently loving Tom Ford Santal Blush, but I can't imagine paying $210 for a bottle.

Quick "Five": Answers to many of your nail questions

It’s been awhile since I answered some of the FAQ that I receive periodically. One common theme tends to rise to the top: nail polish.  I try to post a NOTD every day- and should easily be able to continue to do so through the rest of 2014 without running out of polishes.

How many nail polishes do you have?

Just over 600.  They’re not all high-end, and I’ve been collecting for about 15 years.  My older polishes are mostly in good shape.  It’s amazing how well they held up before the toxic chemicals were removed!  My stash has survived at least ten moves, and was spread across several states at one point. I’m happy to finally have it all in one location.

How do you keep track of them?

I’m a bit of a nerd.  I keep an Excel spreadsheet, categorized alphabetically by brand, and then polishes listed by alphabetical shade name.  There are also columns for color and shade number.  Once I do a NOTD mani and photograph it, I bold the entire line of the spreadsheet.  I keep a copy of the spreadsheet on Dropbox so that I can access it on-the-go, although I rarely make impulse nail buys these days due to the sheer size of my stash.

Have you ever bought the same bottle twice?

Yes, several times. I actively am storing backups of several of my favorite shades that were limited edition. However, I bet the question really is if I’ve bought a polish and forgotten that I’ve owned it. That may have happened in my far younger days, when I had to drive 45 minutes to the nearest Ulta as a teenager (so it was a rare, hurried event), but I can’t remember doing that since I’ve been out of school.

How do you store them?

Not well.  I take that back, they’re all protected and kept in opaque containers in an area of my home that stays at a relatively steady temperature and isn’t exposed to sunlight.  Organizationally, it’s a mess.  I really should invest in a Helmer, but it would stick out horribly with my decorating aesthetic.  I’ve always joked that if I were to ever get an armoire to hide the tv (yes, I know that’s very 90s but there’s something serene about having no screens in a bedroom), it would likely be filled with nail polish!

What is your favorite polish? Why?

If you’re going to hold me to just one, it’s simple.  Chanel Black Pearl.  Prior to Black Pearl, I was an OPI/Essie woman.  Black Pearl was my gateway drug, if you may.  I find it to be such an unexpected classic and always appropriate.  My favorite nude is Deborah Lippmann Careless Whisper, and my former go-to is Essie Over-the-Top.  I still bring it into heavy rotation at unexpected times.  These three shades are the only ones that I actively cultivate a stash of backups because I will be crushed the day that they are no longer in my life.

What are your favorite brands?

Well, a quick glance at my tag cloud should tip you off fairly accurately.  My favorite brand is Chanel. There’s something about the patented Chanel shimmer that no other brand can duplicate, and the bottles and packaging just make me happy. Tom Ford is a close second, with the best formula I’ve ever experienced.  After those two, I enjoy selected shades from Deborah Lippmann and Dior.  I only have a handful of Yves Saint Laurent and Guerlain polishes but find them lovely as well. I enjoy the color range of Butter London, but admittedly they’re not my go-to. Or second thought. Or third.

What high-end brand has disappointed you the most? Why?

I have two brands that come to mind immediately.  It pains me to list them under this category because they both make products that I love and rave about.  First, Burberry Beauty. I’ve tried two shades from their nail line and have been left far less than impressed.  Although I’ve yet to try any of their lip products (which will be changing within 24 hours), I suspect their polishes are the weak link in the line.  I adore their eyeshadows and am collecting all of them at an alarmingly fast pace.  Second, Giorgio Armani.  I’ve only tried one shade and hated the formula.  I may revisit a crème formula in the future, but my one and only experience with Armani was a total disaster (regrettably).

Do you actually do a manicure each day for the NOTD posts?

No, I believe I’ve admitted as such in a prior FAQ. There used to be certain visual tells that could easily let the discerning reader figure out which were swatch-only manis and which were actual manis that I kept on my nails until chipping. I’ve gotten better about hiding my tracks (ahem, using top coat), but there are several rules of thumb to remember.  First, I work in a conservative industry.  A yellow mani was probably for swatches only or a weekend- for example. I’m certainly not afraid of color, but certain shades are far from office friendly.  That said, I look at the NOTD collection as a way to force me to experience and love all of my polishes.  It’s also a great visual reference for me when I’m stuck. I used to keep swatch sticks, but it became overwhelming.

What was the last polish you bought?

Yves Saint Laurent La Lacque Couture in Rose Baby Doll. My last three polish purchases are all from YSL’s line.  Rose Baby Doll, Rouge Pablo, and a LE that I’m going to keep mum about until it actually arrives after my recent Chanel fiasco.

What’s on your wish list?

Too many polishes to count! Here are a few, with rationale:

·      All the Chanels. All of them. No explanation necessary

·      A crème or two from Guerlain: I’m very pleased with the performance of the three shades I’ve tried thus far, but they’re all metallic or shimmery.

·      As many Tom Fords as I can acquire: This is such an amazing formula that even though I likely already own dupes, having a formula that lasts an entire work week is worth every penny.

·      Deborah Lippmann Between the Sheets- I’ve been eyeing this for what seems like years, but haven’t pulled the trigger.

·      Dolce & Gabanna- I’d like to try something from their nail line.

·      Another shade from JinSOON- I found French Lilac to be lovely, so I’d like to explore the line a little bit more. Since I’ve found a local source, I’m more likely to actually purchase.

That’s it for this round of FAQ. Please keep asking!

Quick Five: Beauty Gifts (Sky's the Limit Edition)

This is the final in my series of gift lists.  Today, the sky is the limit!  It's always fun to dream, right?

Quick Five- Best Beauty Gifts (Sky’s the Limit!)

1.     Laura Mercier Les Petites Bonbons Palette ($250)

You know it's decadent if it makes the famed Neiman Marcus gift catalog, right?  This palette
contains 30 baked eyeshadows, making them $8.33 each- or practically free.  Right?  Anyone
would drool to find these under the tree.  Available at Neiman Marcus.


2. Tom Ford Beauty Limited Edition 12-piece Lipstick Set ($588)

Nope, you didn't mis-read that price.  This isn't a great value, but it's the retail price of the 12
lipsticks ($49), with a free case. Still, it's free to dream... Available at Neiman Marcus.


3.  Marc Jacobs Beauty Lovemarc Collection ($350)

This is a slightly better bargain for your luxury dollar.  This set is 13 lipsticks, making them just
$26.92, or under retail price each.  Available exclusively at Sephora.

4. Chanel L'Edition Ultime ($375)

This set is delicious.  For a mere $375, you get 10 of Chanel's Le Vernis shades, plus base and top coats, manicure cream, and carrying case. In case you were wondering, the shades are: Ballerina, Frenzy, Particulière, Distraction, Holiday, Tentation, Dragon, Provocation, Vamp and Black Satin. Available via Chanel and Saks.

5. Diptyque 10 Candle Set ($130)

I know it may not seem like a traditional beauty gift, but this is another heart-stopper.  This set of 10 candles is less than 50% of the price to grab these individually.  Available at Nordstrom.

Quick Five: Beauty Gifts Under $50

In honor of the holiday shopping season, I’ll be offering up a series of Quick Fives this week with my best holiday beauty gift ideas, grouped by price.  Hopefully these will give you some ideas on what to buy the beauty lover in your life. Happy Shopping!

Quick Five- Best Beauty Gifts Under $50

1.     Laura Mercier Shimmer Effects Mini Caviar Stick Set ($40)

I'm a huge fan of Laura Mercier's Caviar Sticks, and this carefully-curated 4pc set of minis in Pink Opal, Rose Gold, Sugarfrost, and Amethyst is a can't miss gift. If I didn't own 3 of the 4 minis, I'd have picked one up for myself already!  It can be found at Laura Mercier counters.

2. Clinique Party Favors Set ($39.50)

I've already raved about (and reviewed) this set here, so do yourself a favor and look at the swatches. This is a fabulously-curated berry set with an exclusive, new Chubby Stick Intense shade.  Clinique's large holiday set is known for being a can't miss- they've nailed it this year.

3. Chanel Le Vernis in Dragon ($27)

I'm a firm believer that every beauty lover needs a bottle of Chanel love in their life.  Dragon is a classic red creme that will never go out of style.   It's available at Chanel counters, and is a permanent shade.

4. Caudalie Favorites Kit ($32)

This kit should be called the "you can't live without these products" kit.  It's rare that you fall in love with every item in a multi-piece kit like this, but it's a common thread with this one.  Truly a great value, and if you're stuck for a gift, just pick this up. I promise. Available via Caudalie and Sephora.


5. Dior Iconic Overcurl Holiday Set ($28.50)

I reviewed this kit here and already explained what a fantastic value these mini palette sets are from Dior.  There's little better than a little Chanel and a little Dior under your tree- just do it!

Quick Five- Beauty Gifts Under $25

In honor of the  holiday shopping season, I’ll be offering up a series of Quick Fives this week with my best holiday beauty gift ideas, grouped by price.  Hopefully these will give you some ideas on what to buy the beauty lover in your life. Happy Shopping!

Quick Five- Best Beauty Gifts $25 and under

 

1.     Bite Beauty Best Bite ($25)

I’ve previously raved about this gift set here.  These are beautiful pencils and an amazing deal.  Perfect for the high-end lippie lover on your list, or really anyone.

They can be found via Sephora.

2. Christian Dior Crème Abricot Nail Cream ($24.50)

I’ve previously admitted that this was my nail secret and that I can’t live without it. (Read my original review here).  It’s a product that will last the recipient forever, and they’ll be thinking of you every time they use it.  It’s a classic that nobody should be without.

It can be found at all of your local Dior counters.

 

3. Philosophy 3-in-1 Shower Gels ($7.50-16)

These are a classic choice for gifting. Period.

4. 21 Drops Quick Fix Gift Set, $15

 I'm just starting my journey with this brand, but have enjoyed the two essential oils I've sampled thus far.  This is a great value, and anyone would enjoy it. It's available via Sephora.

5. L'Occitaine Shea Irresistible Treats Set ($16)

 I adore L'Occitaine's Shea products, and haven't found anyone who doesn't.  At $16, this is a reasonably-priced gift that will be appreciated by the recipient all winter. This is available via Sephora.

 

Quick Five: Q + A with your Quirky Beauty

I'm not sure if anyone else is enjoying these, but I'm having a lot of fun writing them.  So, time for another round of Q +A!

1.  Is there any beauty item that you've coveted for a long time and couldn't bring yourself to purchase?

Yes, of course!  I can mention something that I picked up today on my way home from work.  Tom Ford Nail Lacquer in Dominatrix.  I've been coveting that color since it was released but couldn't get my mind around the price point.  Spoiler alert: I picked up the shade that's being promoted for Holiday since I'm on a total neutral kick.  And since I'd broken that mental barrier, why not also nab the color I've looked at online for over a year?

2. Do you have any limited edition/discontinued items that you hoard or parcel out in tiny amounts?

You bet.  I have three that come to mind immediately. First, if I had the power to bring back any beauty product, it would be MAC Pearlglide Eyeliner in Wolf.  It's the perfect color.  Google it, I don't even like to swatch it.  Second, I managed to nab two bottles of Lush Snowcake perfume from a forum fragrance party a few years ago.  It comes out for the holiday. Mmm... snowcake.  Third, I have kept refrigerated constantly for more years than I'd like to admit Snowcake shower gel.  It's important to abide by Lush's expiration dates, but if you keep something in the fridge, it will last longer.

3. What's your current pedicure?

Marc Jacobs Le Charm, no top coat.  I'm testing it for durability.

4. Where do you do most of your beauty shopping?

Sephora, Ulta, and Nordstrom.  I prefer to buy in-person because I'm a visual person and impatient.  I also hit Macys, Neiman Marcus, Saks, Lord and Taylor and Bloomingdales counters in my area if I'm in hot pursuit of something.


5.  Do you ebay? You can save money there.

Not if I can avoid it. I'm a bit of a germaphobe. However, it's the only way to get some of the discontinued Chanel nail polishes.

That's it for this lightning round!  Please remember to submit your questions- you may see them in an upcoming post.

Quick Five: Essential Mani Tools

Today's Quick Five is a bit different- here are my essential mani tools.  Although most of my nail looks are swapped within a day, I do try for longevity from time to time.  Here are my top picks:

1. Nail Files: I love my Sephora glass file in combination with this plain pink nail file I bought at Harmon when I lived in the NYC area.  I love them so much that I buy a handful of these every time I'm back in the area.

2. Buffer: I use a Revlon Crazy Shine buffer that I picked up at Ulta.

3. Tools: My nail clipper is Sally Hansen, from the drugstore, and I use Sally Hansen nail nippers.

4. Hand Cream: What's a mani without a hand massage? I've been using Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream lately.

5. Cuticle Cream: Dior Creme Abricot is the OG for a reason.  I'll type out a review of it one of these days, but it's the only thing that has kept my cuticles healthy.

Quick Five with the Quirky Beauty

Even though I came up with the questions, I rather enjoyed the quick five with a Q+A.  Here's another edition for your reading pleasure.

1. What's the last product you repurchased? What will be your next?

Excluding items like cotton, makeup removing wipes, nail polish remover, etc- my last repurchase was NARS Pro-Prime Smudge-Proof Eyeshadow Primer. Love it and use it daily. The next item will either be Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer or Diorshow Lash Plumping Formula- I'm not sure which is going first.

2. You've got a NOTD every day. How many bottles of nail polish do you have?

I'm not exactly sure- I stopped counting once I exceeded 500.  I keep a spreadsheet to keep me organized, and I have swatch sticks so I can visually find just the right color in my collection when I'm selecting a nail look.

3. How often do you change your nails? Do they actually match the NOTD?

It varies and sometimes.  I tend to wear polish for 1-2 days because chips drive me insane.  I'm on a computer all day at work and type at night, so I'm incredibly hard on polish.  I don't always match the NOTD because of my photography restrictions (on the weekends if I want an outside shot), but sometimes I do. I tend to swatch 10-15 looks back to back.

4. Isn't that hard on your nails?

Yes, but I use Zoya Remove+ (I find it conditions better than anything else) and Dior Apricot Nail Cream. It helps a lot.

5. Do you buy everything you review?

Yes, for the most part.  I've won a couple of items at events such as the Nordstrom Beauty Trend Shows, but carefully note that in the post.  I don't receive PR samples (although I'm open to that, PR reps- just email me!), so I have to buy where it's the best value.

5b. Then how do you afford it? Are you rich? Or do you have huge credit card bills?

Nope, not rich by any stretch of the imagination. I have a good career that keeps a roof comfortably over my head, but you wouldn't call me rich at all.  No, I don't have huge credit card bills. All beauty purchases are made in cash, debit, or with gift cards I redeemed with rewards points.  How do I actually do it?  Makeup and beauty products are a hobby to me.  I budget for them and allow for a certain level of spending- like another form of entertainment. I'm frugal in other way to compensate.

That's it for this time!  Please remember to submit your own questions!

Quick 5: Q+A with your Quirky Beauty

I thought this might be fun- somewhat of a Q+A with your Quirky Beauty!  Please submit your own questions via the comment feature or via email.

1. How many products do you use for your everyday look and what brands are they from?

Even though today is a weekend, I did a look that I'd do for work.  Here's the breakdown of my products. It looks far worse than it actually is. This includes primers but does not include skincare.  Anastasia Beverly Hills- 3, Benefit- 2, Chanel- 1, Dior-4, Hourglass- 1, Marc Jacobs- 2, Make Up For Ever- 2 , NARS-3

2. How many brushes are you using?

Today, I used 9 brushes. 1- for concealer, 1- for brows, 1- for foundation, 1- for powder, 1- for blush, 1- for highlighter, 3- colors of eyeshadow.  They're a mix of Sephora, Tarte, Anastasia, and MAC.

3. How long do you test a product before reviewing it?

It really depends on several factors: first, the amount of time that I have to blog.  I'm pretty much limited to writing on the weekends. I also have to get all of my decent photos outside.  Second, the product itself.  I can dash off a review of a lipstick or lip gloss after I've worn it twice, in my opinion.  An eyeshadow palette or set of tools obviously takes much more time.  I've been testing several products for a week already and finally feel prepared to write an honest review- if I can grab the photos I need!

4.  You're always buying new products- do you ever finish anything?

Absolutely. I've actually been repurchasing products lately (other than staples like cotton, nail polish remover, brush cleaner, etc).  Within the past week, I had to repurchase my exfoliator, a concealer (although there's still a bit left), and my eyeshadow primer. I'm keeping track of these throughout the year. I've also replenished my eye cream twice, night cream, toner, and daytime moisturizer.

5. What's your best time-saving tip?

Multitask.  For instance, I keep my morning cleanser and exfoliator in the shower so I can be working on my face while my conditioner soaks in. For a bonus, I'll admit that I have to organize myself the night before so I can't choose from my entire collection while getting ready.


That's it for the first try at this!  I'd much rather

Quick Five: Favorite Colors this Fall

Today's Quick Five isn't limited to beauty products!  Looking around today, I realized that I've fallen into certain color combinations that may not be the same as everyone else is reaching for this fall.

1. Grey and Gold: I only started understanding how fabulous gold accessories were within the last couple of years.  Prior to that, I was strictly a silver woman.  Grey was one of the last colors that I hesitated to pair with gold.  I'm not sure why I waited- there's something understated about it.

2. Black Honey: I'm obsessing over all products in this color.  I know I'm not the only one!

3. Camel and Black/ Camel and Teal/ Camel and Burgundy: Camel has become a go-to this Fall for me, and I'm continually learning just how versatile it is.

4. Teal and Mustard: I have an outfit that I'm dying to bring out for an event because it's still a bit bold for the workplace.

5. Black and White: This shouldn't be a shocker to anyone since it's been on-trend for several seasons now.  It's allowing me to take baby steps towards mixing patterns, which I'm having a blast with.


So, what colors are you living in this fall?

Quick Five: Beauty Secrets I'd Like to Crack

Today's Quick Five is showing you, dear readers, my beauty weaknesses.  These are the top 5 techniques, tools, and looks that I can't seem to get.

1. False Lashes: Try as I have, I can't master the technique. I'm left faking the look with mascara and primers.

2. Nail Art: I can barely manage to paint my dominant hand without making a mistake.  I love various nail art looks, and one would think that someone with more bottles of polish than days in the year would be a pro.  Not so much.

3. Cat eye/winged liner: I've tried, and can't manage to do it without looking like an idiot.

4. Proper contouring with bronzer:  I can barely manage blush/highlighter.  I'd love to be able to achieve that chiseled cheekbone look

5.  How to do a proper at-home mani: Yes, I can massage my hands, etc.  But I'd love to know how to do a pro-quality mani at home.

Quick Five: Under-appreciated Products in my Stash

(Quick Five is a series of posts detailing my top five answers to any number of beauty topics.  Feel free to suggest the next topic I should hit with a quick five!)


Quick Five: Under-appreciated Products in My Stash


1. MAC Pigments: I have had a number of pigments in my stash for years. I know that they're versatile, but I've never really gotten the hang of using a mixing medium, and I hate mixing with water.  Any suggestions, readers?

2. Cream Blushes: Another case of a clueless beauty junkie here.  I suffer from mild rosacea, so blush and I have had a rough history.

3. Glitter Nail Polish: I love looking at the bottles, I love swatching, but it's so hard to remove- even with the foil trick.

4. Red Lipstick: I love it, and love the way it looks, but am usually too timid to wear it out of the house.

5. Stippling Brushes: Not a product per se, but I've tried a number of times to master the technique. I learned to use the flat, paintbrush-like foundation brushes growing up- so I never made the transition to stippling.


What are the top 5 under-appreciated products in your stash?