This & That Fridays- February 19

Happy, happy Friday!

I need to give Winners some love on my here because I stopped in on my lunch hour today and picked up Essie’s Starry Starry Night for $5.99!  You read that right – $5.99!!!  So excited, can’t wait to try it out!

I strolled through Hudson’s Bay on my walk back and I was mesmerized by this beautiful bottle of Missoni perfume.  I have no idea if it smells any good at all, I just want it for the bottle.

Buzzfeed is usually good for a laugh once and a while and this article cracked me up.  I can’t decide who wins – Mindy Kailing, January Jones, or Joe Maganiello?  #awkardness

February has been unseasonably warm here – which gets me thinking about Spring…and then Spring clothes…and things like this skirt, this top, and these shoes.  I wear colour all year round but when Spring comes I just want to ditch black and gray.

I need this so I can watch Youtube videos in the bathtub without worrying about dropping my in the tub!  Brilliant!

Update – I made Pioneer Woman’s Beef Stroganoff last weekend and it was just meh.  I added extra spices to it and it still had no flavor.  Boo.  Wouldn’t recommend it.

Have a fantastic weekend!

What I Got for Christmas & My Birthday (2015)!

Christmas & New Years seems like it was forever ago but because I was sick after Christmas, I didn’t have a chance to share what I received, so I thought better late than never! My birthday is on New Years Eve, so I’m combining both sets of gifts into one post. I was pretty much spoiled this year by everyone so I’m very thankful to everyone for gifting me such wonderful things!

Receiving perfume, in the words of Buddy the Elf, is my favourite!  I love trying and discovering new types and changing up what I wear on a daily basis – so I like having lots of options.  Which is probably why I received these 3 bottles for Christmas!Fantasy – Britney Spears:This is one of my favourite perfumes so I was very happy to receive another bottle of this.  Yes, it’s Britney Spears but I’ve worn this for years and it smells sooo good!  And the bottle is really pretty too.
Seductive – Guess: My MIL gave me this and it’s not one I would have picked up on my own, but it’s a nice addition to my collection.  I really like the classic design of the bottle.
BonBon – Viktor & Rolf: Okay, first can we talk about this glorious packaging?  It’s a BOW.  As if that isn’t enough on its own, it also included a special edition rhinestone encrusted bow around the top.  Not only is the bottle itself gorgeous, the perfume is beautiful too – it smells sweet and slightly fruit, with a slight hint of muskiness.  This was a gift from my parents and it’s essentially me in perfume form.

Foreo ISSA Toothbrush: D bought me this and before I opened it, he told me that it was a last-minute gift and I can return it and he didn’t know why he bought it?  I didn’t really know what to expect so I was pleasantly surprised when I opened it and discovered this toothbrush.  I had seen these in Sephora before and thought they looked cool but gawked at the price tag. Unfortunatley the reviews I’ve read on this aren’t that great…so I might return this.  I haven’t used it yet so that’s still an option.  Still deciding.

Rocky Mountain Soap Lavender Bath Salts, Vanilla & Ginger Bubble Bath (no longer available), Vanilla Mint Soap, Root Beer Lip Butter: I’m a HUGE bath person so I really enjoy receiving bath products.  I’ve used Rocky Mountain Soap’s products before so I’m familiar with several of these.  I’ve been using the Bubble Bath for a week now and I like it – it foams up nicely and it smells pleasantly of ginger ale (unfortunately it’s limited edition).  The Bath Salts are heavily lavender scented which I personally don’t mind – I like using these before bed.  The lip balm smells exactly like a glass of root beer which is right up my alley; I haven’t tried the soap yet but I’ve placed it near my bathtub and will soon.

Too Faced The Chocolate Bar Eye Palette:  My parents gave me this for my birthday which was fantastic because I’ve been coveting this for a while.  I’ve only had a chance to use it twice since I received it (due to my pink eye) but so far, I’ve been really impressed.  The shadows are very pigmented, super buttery and blend so easily.  And they smell amazing!  Full review to follow.

Bite Beauty Mauvember Luminous Creme Lipstick (no longer available online; not pictured): I can’t believe I forgot to include this in the picture above because I adore this lipstick!  The colour is gorgeous, the formula is beautiful (silky smooth) and it has convinced me that I need more Bite Beauty lip products in my life.  Although it’s no longer online, the last time I was in Sephora I still saw a few of these left near the checkouts so snatch this up if you can as it’s (sadly) limited edition!

Sephora Look Color in the Eye Brush Capsule: My mom included this in my stocking and I think this is a great gift for any beauty-lover.  This is perfect little set to throw in your travel bag or purse; plus they come in great colours.

Precious Moments Snowman Snow Globe: Despite having Rubbermaid bins on top of Rubbermaid bins of Christmas decor, one thing I did not have was a snow globe.  I’ve been looking for a nice one for a while, and my parents surprised me with this Precious Moments one for Christmas. Sometimes the figurines in snow globes can look kind of cheap so I like how carefully crafted this is.  It also plays music – the song being “Vivaldi’s Winter.”  Definitely one of my favourite Christmas gifts.

Kate Spade New York Cornelia Pave Bezel Watch: This was a birthday gift from D but I knew I was getting it.  I’ve been eyeing this watch for months and when we were in New York in the Fall it was on sale at Macy’s for a really good price.  So he bought it for me and stored it away for my birthday.  Honestly, I can’t stop staring at this when I wear it – it’s just so pretty and sparkly!  One thing I didn’t notice until today is that the back is engraved with “In a New York Minute” – if I didn’t associate this with our New York trip before, I most definitely will now.  ❤

Swarovski Megan Pendant: Another gift from D, this time for Christmas.  I wasn’t sure about this when I first opened it because it seemed a little large for my liking but I wore it on Christmas Day and received lots of compliments.  I think it’ll be a great special occasion necklace, which is something that I actually don’t have a lot of.

I also received gift cards to Sephora and the mall which are burning a hole in my pocket!  I really want to go blow them all this weekend but I’m trying to be more mindful of my purchases this year and make sure I’m buying things I REALLY want and love.  We’ll see how long that lasts.

What did you get for Christmas?  Let me know below!

Have a beautiful day!

Gift Guide for Her

I couldn’t do a Gift Guide for Him and not do a Gift Guide for her.  Most of these are things I have previously received as gifts or similar to things I have purchased for myself – and love.  And if I don’t have them, I know I’d enjoy them.  And I think others would enjoy them too!

1. Gap Cozy Plaid Scarf ($34.95 CAD) – I purchased one of these a month ago and I’m in LOVE with it.  It’s so soft and the perfect size – large enough to use as a shawl but not too big that it’s bulky when used as a scarf.  The colour above was in stock yesterday and is now sold out so if you want one of these, get yourself to GAP asap!
2. Victoria’s Secret Fireside Long Jane Pajamas ($54.50 CAD): Victoria’s Secret always has the cutest, coziest pj’s!  Love the colourful print on these.
3. Project Candy Box – 3 Month Subscription ($70.50 CAD): For the sweet tooth on your list!  A box full of candy on your doorstep each month.  Sign me up!  Bonus that this is a Canadian company and charges in Canadian funds!
4. Tiffany Notes Alphabet Disc Charm Pendant and Chain ($165 CAD): You can never go wrong with anything from Tiffany’s.  But who wouldn’t love this monogrammed pendant?  Simple yet elegant.
5. Saje AromaOm Ultrasonic Nebulizer ($89.95 CAD): I received one of these a few years ago at Christmas and it’s one of the best gifts I’ve ever received.  In addition to the numerous benefits of aromatherapy, this purifies, humidifies, and reduces dust and other allergens in the air.
6. Ugg Classic Wired Ear Muff ($90 CAD): I am not a touque wearer and sometimes a hood is too warm, which is why I love these Ugg Wired Ear Muffs.  They don’t mess up my hair, and they keep my ears and head toasty warm.  Plus you can connect them to your phone or iPod and they double as ear phones.  I’m on my second pair of these as I lost my first pair (which was sad).
7. Sephora Gift Card: No-brainer here.
8. Fossil Jacqueline Beige Leather Watch ($197.64 CAD): I prefer dainty, feminine watches and the face on this one is gorgeous and unique.  A good option if you’re looking to splurge!
9. Ugg Fluff Flip Flop II Slipper ($98 CAD): I’m big on UGG stuff, if you haven’t noticed.  Mainly because in their case (which isn’t always the case!), $$$ equals quality.  I’ve never not been impressed with anything I’ve purchased from Ugg.  And their slippers are the best.  I own the Ansley ones and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.  These are basically winter flip flops.
10. Saje Relaxation Diffuser Blend ($44.95 CAD): This would pair nicely with the nebulizer above, or as a lovely gift all on its own.  You can use these in a oil warmer as well.  All of these smell great, but Spa Spirit is my favourite.  It smells like walking into your favourite spa.
11. Color Me Calm Adult Coloring Book ($15 CAD): Adult colouring books are all the rage and are a great way to unwind and relieve stress.  I try to do a bit in mine every night just to ease in shutting my brain down before I head to bed.
12. Set of 24 Coloured Pencils ($15 CAD): A must-have to accompany the colouring book!
13. Britney Spears Fantasy Gift Set ($21.99 CAD): Okay this is slightly embarrassing to admit, but this is one of my favourite fragrances.  Yes I know it’s Britney Spears.  But I get so many compliments when I wear this AND it’s super cheap.  And the bottle looks so pretty on a vanity!
14. Bath & Body Works Lavender Vanilla Luxury Bath ($16.50 USD): This is the best bubble bath ever.  It is super thick and creamy and makes the foamiest bubbles ever.  The scent is gentle and light and just so relaxing.  You can’t go wrong with gifting this.

If you haven’t finished up your shopping yet, I wish you luck and patience braving the crowds!

Happy Shopping!

 

Sephora VIB Sale Wish List

 

It’s that time of the year again!  If you haven’t heard, the Sephora VIB Rouge sale starts this weekend (November 6-9) and the VIB sale follows shortly thereafter (November 13-16).  I saw the news on Instagram last night and I knew I had to start thinking about what I wanted to purchase.

FACE

Before I purchase either of these foundations I’m going to try and get samples of both beforehand.  These are both pricey foundations so I don’t want to invest in one of them and then figure out they don’t work for me!

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation – $49 CAD

I’ve heard so many good things about this foundation and because I just had a really good experience with the Too Faced Most Loved Set (review here), I’m kind of on a Too Faced kick now.

Makeup Forever Invisible Coverage Foundation – $50 CAD

I’ve heard such great things about this foundation as well.  The shade selection is extensive (40 shades!) so it seems like finding the right one for my face won’t be an issue.  I’m interested to see the differences between this and the Too Faced foundation in store.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder (Diffused Light) – $52 CAD

I’ve been wanting to try one of these highlighting powders for a while but the price just about kills me!  Taking 20% off helps soften the blow; if only they all didn’t look so beautiful!   I think I’d go with the Diffused Light shade given that its meant to conceal redness which is something I struggle with.

Bare Minerals Skin Rev-er Upper – $25 CAD

This is my favourite lightweight, every day moisturizer.  I’m almost out, so I need a refill!  It’s annoying that this doesn’t show up on the Canadian site, so I’m going to have to pick it up in-store.  It’s got a very thin and watery consistency and it absorbs into my skin very quickly, which is key for me in the mornings!

 

 

Nars Blush (Sin/Deep Throat/Mata Hari) – $37.00

I’ve worn Nars Orgasm for years and I think it will always be one of my favourite blushes of all time.  Because I’m such a fan of the formula, I want to add to my collection.  Can’t decide between these three shades though!

EYES

Buxom Dolly’s Wild Side Eyeshadow Palette – $50

I spotted this palette back in the summer and it intrigued me, particularly that shimmery cranberry shade on the far right.  The shades in this one all look really pretty but I’m trying to decide if it’d be more fun to create my own palette within this line for the same price.

Kat Von D Shade + Light Eye Contour Palette – $55 CAD

Another highly raved about palette!  These are all very neutral though which I think is kind of boring, but neutrals and nudes are typically what I reach for on a daily basis.

Tarte Showstopper Clay Palette – $48 CAD

I’ve been looking for a travel-friendly palette and this one looks like it would fit the bill!  It contains eyeshadows, blush, bronzer and highlighter and the colours all look very neutral and warm but versatile!

Too Faced The Chocolate Bar Eye Palette – $59 CAD

The most expensive option of the bunch but probably the one I want most. The chocolate scent of this is what is pulling me in, not to mention the mix of brown and neutral shades, with the occasional pop of colour in there too.

Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara – $30

I did a full review on the trail size of this here; I rarely buy high-end mascara but this one has me converted!  My sample size has run out and I’m really missing this so I know I need the full size.

HAIR

Living Proof Instant Texture Mist – $32 CAD

I just used up a trial size of this and I lurrrrrved it!  It made my curls (via curling iron) last longer than anything I’ve used previously and it left zero residue behind.  The cost of this physically hurts but because my hair is so tempermental I’m willing to cough up the change for it.

 

 

FRAGRANCE

Marc Jacobs Decadence – $115 CAD

This might be my new fall/winter fragrance.  First, I’m mesmerized by the bottle, how unique is it?  And the scent is so lovely – a little woodsy, slightly musky but still feminine.  I might try the rollerball to start and then request a full size spray for Christmas.

LIPS

Bite Beauty Luminious Lip Creme (Mauvember) – $28 CAD

I’m not sure if you can use the discount on this product but I might just buy this anyway.  It looks like a great shade, plus its limited edition and supports a great charity!

 

Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask – $30 CAD

It’s only November and my lips are already so dry. I feel like I’m going to need something extra-strength to get me through the colder months, and this has been on my must-try list for a while.   I’ve heard the packaging sucks on this but the product itself is really good.

Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick (Melted Peony) – $25 CAD

I  have Melted Fig in this line and I love it.  All the other colours in this line look pretty intense and vibrant, but Melted Peony looks a little more muted and more my style.

 

So I’m obviously not going to buy all of these because I don’t have an unlimited bank account.  Plus, once I’m in store, I tend to talk myself out of things or convince myself that I don’t really need this or that.  Then I regret it after the sale is over and end up buying things at full price.  #logic  So this time I’m going to make sure that I’m thoughtful about what I purchase, why I’m purchasing and why I decide not to purchase something.

Have you tried any of these products?  Have I made some good choices?  Not so good choices?  What have I missed?  What are you buying at the VIB sale?  Let me know below!

Thanks for reading!