Beauty Schooled- August 2014 Ipsy Bag Review

Hello Lovelies! 

I have been subscribed to Ipsy since May of 2012 and over time there have been good months, and bad ones. This particular month I do like the theme, but I am not overly thrilled with the execution and choice of products, but for the price I pay I am always pleased.  For only $10 a month I get the opportunity to try new products and test out new brands that I wouldn't normally purchase on my own. Sometimes I can tell as soon as I open my bag that their are certain products I wont like, those products I collect and give away, but sometimes I find products that I fall in love with. 

Let's start by discussing the bag that came this month. I am a huge fan of polka dot print, and I think this is adorable, although it really doesn't fit the particular theme. I would have preferred to see a bag with a cutesy book print, maybe something a little more colorful and artistic. I also detest the material of these bags, I much prefer when they use fabrics. 

I always love when I get to try out new lip balms, as they are one of my essential beauty products. I love this tin, although it is a little big to be kept in my makeup bag in my purse on a daily basis. I am glad I received the Green Apple Absolute Lip Balm not only because I love the scent, but the light pink tint is very complimentary to my skin tone. I am impressed with this balm as it is moisturizing, but it doesn't leave that sticky feeling like some lip balms tend to do. I also am super excited about this balm because stamped directly on the bottom of the cute tin is a little bunny symbol that says "against animal testing" and that always makes me happy to see. I definitely could see myself purchasing this in the future, and I would love to try out the other flavors (grape, strawberry, and bubblegum) especially since they are only $5.99 for a two pack. 

This here is the Dr. Brandt Pores No More pore refiner primer for oily/combination skin. I myself have combination skin,  my cheeks and parts of my forehead tend to be dry, while my t-zone can get a bit shiny. This pore refiner says it will minimize the appearance of pores, blur imperfections, erase shine and mattify skin, absorb oil, and even act as a shield to prevent makeup from clogging your pores. The product directs you to apply either under or over your makeup, and throughout the day as needed. I decided I would wear this under the makeup as I would a typical primer, and I was impressed with how smooth my face felt and appeared. I continued to work on my makeup and realized I didn't feel the need to apply as much foundation or see the need to apply my Makeup Forever finishing powder as I normally do to get the matte look I like. I am thoroughly impressed with this product, but I do find it to be a bit pricey ($45 for 1oz.)  

If you have followed me for a bit you may know that I am a huge fan of Coastal Scents products, so its always great to get stuff from them. If you have never tried products from them they are definitely a great company for all sorts of makeup enthusiasts as the products are high-quality, but affordable. I have made many purchases in the past from Coastal Scents, especially since they frequently have sales, and they are one of the main brands I recommend to people. Although the  brown shade of blush isn't really fitting to my pale skin tone, the pink shade works quite well for me. These Forever Blushes are highly pigmented and come in various different shades, and I guarantee you can find a shade you will adore also. 

Every so often I get the opportunity to try a product from a brand I have never heard of before, and this liner is one of those products. This mini kajal kohl-liner in black is from Lord & Berry and I was quite excited to try it out as eye liner is essential to me. In the past couple years I have grown to love marker-like pencils, or liquid liner, but I am always willing to test out a pencil. Unfortunately, this particular one kind of fell short for me, I didn't think it was dark enough and it smudged quite easily, so, it doesn't work well for me personally as I typically rock a cat eye, but I think this could be a good liner to use when creating a sultry smokey eye look. 

Last, but not least, is the Urban Decay Perversion Mascara, and I must say I love UD products. I love receiving mascaras because I wear them on a daily basis, even when I don't exactly feel like wearing makeup. This mascara is exactly what it says it is, it's bigger, badder, and blacker, I have no complaints. 

Here is a simple look using all of the Ipsy bag products along with: 

Kat Von D Lock-It Tattoo Foundation in Light 

Pacifica Natural Beauty Eye Shadow Duo #2 (Received in a past bag) 

Benefit Gimme Brow in Medium

Pantone's Spring Color Trends

Hello Lovelies! 

 

I know it's not spring yet, it actually feels like spring will never come here in Michigan, but I am way behind in "fashion time" when it comes to discussing the Spring 2014 trends, so here we go....

I typically blog about the clothing trends here, but I figured this time I would do something a little different and base my post all around Pantone's Spring 2014 color report for women.  

Radiant Orchid

According to Pantone, Radiant Orchid, was chosen for the color of the year because it intrigues the eye, and sparks the imagination. The director of the Pantone Color Institute also said that it is an invitation for innovation, Radiant Orchid encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today's society. Read the press release about the color of the year here.

This particular hue certainly makes a bold statement and within the next couple of months the shade will be popping up in a lot of stores just in time to mix into your spring wardrobe. Above you will see a selection of pieces showcasing the shade, and below is an example of the hue in outfit form. 

Placid Blue

Violet Tulip

Hemlock

Paloma 

Sand

Freesia

Celosia Orange

Cayenne

Dazzling Blue

And those are all of Pantone's colors for spring...

What color is your favorite?

My personal favorite is Cayenne, I love the vibrant shade, and I think it is perfect for this spring. I also believe that pieces in this hue could easily be worked into your future summer wardrobe.

My least favorite color in general is freesia, because I honestly detest all shades of yellow on my skin tone. I also do not like the idea of Paloma for spring, to me spring is about fresh vibrant hues, and this neutral color seems more fitting for winter to me.

Feel free to leave feedback on my Facebook page, message me via my contact form on my website, or comment directly on my blog.

Perlier's Imperial Honey Body Butter

Hello Lovelies! 

Once again I have iFabbo.com to thank for letting me get the chance to sample something new, this time it was Perlier's Imperial Honey Body Butter. If you frequent my blog you may remember that I have had the opportunity to test other products from Perlier in the past such as; Perlier's Volcanic Thermo Scrub, and their Lemon Sorbet Crackling Ice Body Water. Just in case you haven't heard of Perlier before, they are an Italian Bath and Body Company frequently highlighted on HSN, that provide products created by using active ingredients of medicinal plants. 

I received this product just at the perfect time, my skin is lacking moisture due to this extreme cold, and I was in desperate need of a quality lotion. The first time I applied this lotion I had just taken a shower and exfoliated with Perlier's Thermo Scrub, and the body butter felt wonderful on my skin. It's thick and creamy texture absorbs well without a hint of greasiness left behind, and it left my skin soft and smooth. Although I personally did not like the lingering honey scent of the body butter, I would recommend it based on it's moisturizing capabilities. Perlier is a brand I personally believe has some wonderful products so check them out if you are a skin care addict like me. 

Perlier on HSN!

#PerlierOnHSN

Perlier on FB
@PerlierUSA

Fall/Winter 2013 Fashion Trend: Classic Prints

Hello Lovelies! 

As a fan of vintage fashion I am ecstatic that classic prints, such as houndstooth, stripes, floral, and plaid are on trend for this fall and winter season. I am not only excited because I love a classic style, but because this means it is much easier to find vintage-y pieces to add to my wardrobe without having to purchase on-line and in specialty stores. I understand not everyone that visits my page shares my love of vintage style, but I guarantee classic prints can work with anyone's style from girly to edgy, there are classic printed pieces for everyone. Just like all of my fashion posts I will include outfit examples via Polyvore, and a collage of pieces I personally like.


Houndstooth 

Houndstooth by bri-grim featuring blue jackets

Pictured above are samples of Houndstooth pieces that I personally adore. When it comes to Houndstooth print I tend to lean towards simple, classic pieces that stick to the traditional black and white colors.

Below is a classic outfit not only showcasing the trend of a classic print, but also highlighting the peplum trend wonderfully.

Classic Houndstooth by bri-grim featuring a jessica simpson footwear

Stripes



Stripes by bri-grim featuring a chain purse

Stripes are my all-time favorite pattern!  I mostly find myself liking horizontal stripes for some unknown reason, but occasionally I will across a piece with vertical ones that I don't mind. Below is an outfit that consists of comfortable yet classy pieces that could be worn for numerous events or even as everyday wear. 

Black and Beige by bri-grim featuring a long sleeve tee

Floral Print

Floral Print by bri-grim featuring a black skirt

I absolutely love floral print pieces, and could easily show you tons of different "pinup" style dresses that I love, but I wanted to show you a little more different floral options. Although if you are in search of a beautiful floral vintage-like dress, check out Pinup Girl Clothing .



Roses are Red by bri-grim featuring nickel free earrings

Plaid/Tartan

Tartan by bri-grim featuring hoop earrings

When it comes to the tartan/plaid trend all I can think about is the holiday dresses and nightgowns I had as a small child, and old-school punk rockers. I am not sure how versatile a tartan print can be, I see it as something you would find in an either an old woman's closet, on flannel shirts, and in the wardrobe of someone a bit edgy. I myself don't think I would rock this trend, although in my teen years I would have been all about it, I actually owned quite a few plaid skirts that I paired with leggings and boots. Below is a more alternative option, because I think this trend works best with the style.

Tartan Smock by bri-grim featuring a black ring

I want to know what you think about the trend of classic prints? Also, how would you wear them?

Join me on Polyvore if you would like to see more outfit examples.
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Fall and Winter Fashion Trends 2013: Military Inspired Pieces

Hello Lovelies!

It's once again time for fashion related posts!

 I know it's been awhile, and it has obviously changed seasons since my last fashion posts, but today's post will be the start of a series of posts focusing on the fall/winter fashion for this year, paired with outfit examples I created using Polyvore.

Fall and winter have become my favorite seasons for fashion as I have gotten older. This particular year is showcasing trends such as statement coats, over-the-knee boots, turtlenecks, slouchy pants, and military inspired pieces amongst others. Although I will not thoroughly discuss all trends I definitely will discuss my favorites, and the ones that I definitely think should just stay on the runway.

I would describe my personal style for the fall and winter months as cozy, and comfortable, yet fashionable. I absolutely love sweater dresses, black leggings, boots, scarfs, and anything else that is cute, yet can keep me warm in Michigan.  

MILITARY INSPIRED

I absolutely love military inspired pieces! I tend to personally lean more towards military inspired jackets, shoes, and dresses, but you can find tons of different pieces during this time. Below are images of some pieces I personally like, also some examples of how to wear this trend. Military inspired pieces work wonderfully with my personal "pin-up" style, but there is a piece for pretty much anyone out there, some more classic, while others very edgy.

Military Inspired Pieces by bri-grim featuring Dorothy Perkins

Military Inspired Pieces by bri-grim featuring colorful bangles

The example below shows that it is possible to look classic and still rock this trend. This navy shift dress looks classy, appropriate for the office, and has small military inspired details. In the fall I always love pairing dresses with beautiful trench coats, such as this beige double breasted trench. To add a little bit of edginess to this look, but keep it classic, I paired the dress and trench with classic Diane Von Furstenberg Bethany heels, and a Michael Kors studded navy tote bag.

Classic Military Inspired by bri-grim featuring drop earrings

Military Inspired Pieces: Comfy Casual by bri-grim featuring skinny jeans

Above is a casual option filled with numerous military inspired pieces. This outfit consists of a comfortable pair of black skinny jeans, a casual t-shirt, and accessories that bring the outfit to a whole new level.

Below is another casual option, but this one features edgier pieces. This outfit also happens to be my budget-friendly version, all pieces shown in this outfit are under $50. I absolutely adore feminine versions of combat boots, although I personally do not own a pair yet, and these specific ones are only $47. I also wanted to use at least one camouflage piece in one of my outfits in this post, and I loved this studded camo jacket from 9xis, so I chose this as my main piece of the outfit and worked around it. I chose to add the camouflage wonder spike cuff as an accessory because it combined both of the main elements in my outfit in a subtle way. A key piece of advice to remember is to not go overboard on the camouflage, choose one or two pieces , and then pair them with more subtle pieces to avoid the "going hunting" look.

Camo and Studs by bri-grim featuring a black studded handbag

So, I want to know what you think of this trend? If you like it, how would you wear it?

It feels good to be back posting fashion posts, and this is only the beginning of a full series of posts focuses on fall/winter fashion trends, so stay tuned!

Next up: Statement Outerwear

Perlier Volcanic Thermo Scrub

Hello Lovelies!

 

I know it has been awhile since I have been active, but my life has been all over the place, and I barely have even had time to do much of anything besides work and run around with my children. Oh how nice it would be to not have to work and be able to stay home with my kids, and work on all the projects that I would love to do, but as of right now that is nowhere near achievable for me, so I am working on finding the right balance. I come back today to give you a review of Perlier's Volcanic Thermo Scrub that I received thanks to Ifabbo, although it is a bit late.  

 

You may remember in the past  I have reviewed Perlier's Lemon Sorbet Crackling Ice Body Water thanks to Ifabbo, so I was definitely curious as to how I would like this product, and I was pleasantly surprised.

 

First off I must point off that I absolutely love the color of the Volcanic Thermo Scrub along with the design of the packaging. Does anyone else pay attention to packaging as much as me? I absolutely love scrubs, I have tons of different body and facial scrubs, and I love to use them when I need a pick me up, or when I have a little extra "me" time.

 

Typically scrubs leave my skin feeling soft, smooth, and looking extra glowy, but occasionally I have came across a scrub that has irritated my sensitive skin, so if you do have sensitive skin make sure you are careful. The Volcanic Thermo Scrub left my skin feeling amazing, it worked wonders at scrubbing off any extra dead skin cells. It also has a wonderful ocean breeze like scent that left me feeling very refreshed.

 

Currently I can't seem to find this particular product on Perlier's website, which is terrible, but I did find it on HSN. They also sell a Perlier Volcanic Thermal Spa pack on HSN, which also contains Perlier's Reinvigorating Body Cream, and Revitalizing Foam Bath, which I personally would LOVE to try.

 

Considering both products I have received from Perlier, thanks to Ifabbo, I would absolutely love to try out more products from them, because so far I have been quite impressed.

 

I would love to try the Double Latte Hair Mask,  White Almond Absolute Comfort Soothing Lip Balm,  and the Green Tea Body Massage Cream.

 

@PerlierUSA

#perlieronhsn

HYD for Men Buffer Stick & Razor Shield Review

Hello Lovelies! 

I know... I know... It has been awhile. 

I said I would finish my review of the rest of the HYD men's skincare line, but between going back to work (after being on leave for a couple months) and my son starting kindergarten things have been a tad bit crazy around here. With everything that has been going on I have not only not had much time to write, but I haven't even had much time to do makeup which completely drives me nuts, but I am hoping to be able to commit again. This point is going to contain the full review for the HYD for men's Buffer Stick, and the Razor Shield. 

Like I explained in my previous post about the Shave Cream, my wonderful boyfriend, Aaron, reviewed these products and I am just writing what he said out, basically. 

HYD for Men Buffer Stick

Both me and Aaron were very intrigued when we first opened the buffer stick, it sported the same type of packaging as the shave cream which Aaron loved, and it was in a deodorant like container (containers that you turn the bottom to make more come up). At first look the buffer stick looks kind of like a deodorant, but you can also see a little bit of exfoliating texture inside which is suppose to exfoliate skin and help fight ingrown hairs. As stated in my previous post Aaron has very sensitive skin, so we weren't sure how well an exfoliant would work for him, but surprisingly it doesn't irritate his skin one bit. The first time he used the buffer stick you could not only feel, but see, a dramatic difference in the dead skin that came off of his face, especially in the nasal region, but it hasn't noticeably changed the amount of ingrown hairs.  The directions read to only use the buffer stick 3 times a week, and so far Aaron has stuck to this quite well, and I have noticed quite a bit of difference in the amount of dead skin he has on his face (remember he has psoriasis). We both feel this buffer stick is a decent product, and would recommend it to someone who need a good exfoliant, but it is a little more on the pricey side at $24.99 a container. 

HYD for Men Razor Shield 

The website states that the razor shield creates a liquid barrier, protecting the razor's blades from becoming dull and making shaving uncomfortable. To use the razor shield you simply apply a little bit to the blades after every use, and it is suppose to help prolong the life of the blades, making it cheaper and better for you. For a small starter bottle (5mL) it is $7, which they say you can get about 30 uses out of, and for the larger standard bottle (15mL) it is $18, which they say you can get about 90 uses out of it. The razor shield is the product we were least satisfied with, although it does seem to make the blades last a bit longer, for the price of the shield (plus shipping) you might as well just keep on purchasing the blades and deal with the annoyance. 

Overall, we think HYD for men is a pretty decent skincare line, but it is definitely not the cheapest out there, and it also is only available online at this point which makes it a bit inconvenient, especially if you or your boyfriend/husband/friend are like my boyfriend and forget that they are running out of product until it's too late.