Vasanti Love Brights Gel Matte Lipstick Review

In honor of rich, vivacious fall color, I’ve decided to revisit some of my favorite products from Vasanti Cosmetics. If you haven’t tried the extraordinary Love Brights Lipsticks yet, you are missing out on some serious gorgeousness and although these shades inspire me to create stunning autumn looks, their vibrant beauty transcends seasonal trends for sensational lips all year round!

First let’s talk about the unique bullet design that covers more surface in a single swipe for enhanced application. The broader shape feels more efficient and the tip helps outline and define. Although the finish is matte (void of any slickness), the formula is enriched with nourishing mango butter, pomegranate seed oil, evening primrose and sweet cherry seed oil for lightweight comfort and supple moisture.

The shades in this collection are phenomenal and because of the lush texture they do not cause dryness or chapping. The creamy consistency glides on smooth and velvety with the ability to layer and intensify beautifully without feathering. Pigmentation wise, the lipsticks are expertly saturated, full-coverage and pure plus the range has something to compliment every style, preference and skin tone.

For a creamy-matte formulation the longevity is quite impressive and the color seems to cling well for less transfer and more fade-resistance. I’ve been using these lipsticks for years now and although they do last quite a while, you should probably use them up or replace your favorites within a year to a year and a half as the scent does change.

Mad Love is my personal fave and I can't seem to get enough of this flattering plum-purple!

This shade called - The Big Time, is from the Time After Time Collection. It provides sheer to medium coverage with a hint of shine and although the color is not as solid or opaque as the Love Brights, the pretty wine-berry hue makes lips look voluptuous.

I’ve been rocking dark, vampy lips recently and Drunk in Love is a swoon-worthy rich burgundy that spices up your look with a seductive flare!

Endless Love is a classic matte red with the right balance of bright and deep tones to create a signature shade. Since there are no harsh blue or orange undertones anyone can pull this off and look totally glam.

Crazy in Love is a Hot Pink which adds a refreshing burst of color on dreary days and instantly rejuvenates the complexion with its bold brightness.

The quality of these lipsticks is high-end and impressive yet they won’t break the bank at just $19.00 each and something about the shade selection is very sophisticated.

Vasanti Cosmetics is available at Shoppers Drug Mart, beautyboutique.ca and vasanticosmetics.com

Too Faced 2016 Holiday Collection: Naughty Kisses & Sweet Cheeks Review

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way! It’s not even Halloween yet and my enthusiasm for the holiday season rivals Santa’s. I don’t know about you, but I’ve started checking things off my shopping list early this year and believe it or not I’ve almost finished organizing my gifts! When the last minute mall goers are fighting for parking spaces in a blinding blizzard, I’ll be cocooned in a warm throw with some hot cocoa. To help make gift giving easier, Too Faced has released a collection of festive new sets that are sure to please!

For the makeup lovers on your list, the Naughty Kisses & Sweet Cheeks Collection is a treat! The set comes with 3 mini blush and lip gloss duos in coordinating shades. You can keep one for yourself, give one to a friend or get busy stuffing those stockings! For just $45.00 ($15.00 per set) you can check three people off your list at once and if you want to be extra nice, pair it with a gorgeous Too Faced eye shadow palette. There are even gift tags on the back of the decorative boxes!

For ladies who prefer neutral tones, this box contains the Deluxe Lip Injection Gloss in the shade Milkshake and the Love Flush Blush in Baby Love. The blush contains a subtle dusting of shimmer and emits a soft, peachy glow. The gloss has a shiny finish with a very sheer, nude tint. If you are new to the Lip Injections keep in mind that the formula is meant to plump for a voluminous effect so you will experience a slight stinging sensation that dissipates within a few minutes.

The next set includes the clear Lip Injection (which can be layered over any lipstick) and the shimmery pink blush in the shade Crazy in Love. This box can be gifted to people of all skin tones (if they like pink) and the silky pigment adds a pop of vibrant color and highlight. The blush is also quite buildable with great color-pay off and on a gloomy winter day this shade definitely perks-up the complexion!

Last but not least we have my favorite gloss from the Injection range called Like a Boss and the Love Flush Blush in the shade Dream Lover. Like all lip color in this collection, this one is also sheer but it has a pretty lavender tone that makes lips appear juicy and alluring. On my skin, the blush appears lavender-pink which has a fresh highlight effect but I can see it being a bit ashy on deeper skin tones. I would have preferred a rich plum hue instead but the great thing about buying multiple sets is that you can gift them to whoever suits the shades best.

I think if the boxes contained the Too Faced Melted Lipsticks instead of the Injections they would be even more enticing (at least to me) but these cute little gifts would make any girl squeal for joy! The mini sizes also make the products great for travel and small handbags.

Too Faced Cosmetics is available at Sephora and online at toofaced.com

Luzia by Cirque du Soleil: Review & Photos

When I was ten, my dad took me to the circus for the first time. I can still remember the scent of fresh, buttery popcorn, souvenir stalls brimming with enticing toys and the excitement I felt right before the show. It was a magical night featuring death-defying stunts performed by unusual characters, and although the circus has changed a lot since I was a kid, the thrill and fascination has not diminished.

Simbaltico was the first show I saw by Cirque du Soleil and I was instantly hooked! Last weekend I sat center stage at Luzia – inspired by a waking dream of Mexico. The show transports you to a mystical world of culture beauty and art with touches of mime humor and jaw-dropping acrobatics.

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

Seeing the show inside a tent, the way the circus is supposed to be experienced was more intimate and every seat had a good vantage point around the stage. The venue size also allowed the performers to be interactive with the crowd so we were completely immersed in the wonder and vibrancy of the fantasy.

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

The story begins with a quirky sky diver plummeting into a dream-like world of extraordinary creatures and follows his whimsical journey through several enchanting visions accompanied by beautiful Mexican ballads. Lead singer Majo Cornejo has a soulful voice that completely captivates as performers fly, flip and twirl gracefully through a waterfall that plummets down center stage.

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

The mix of fairytale elements, vivid color and intricate costume design captures a diverse and artistic interpretation of Mexico complete with extraordinary sets that rotate, revolve, and transform before your eyes. From flinging acrobatics, hoop diving, trapeze, clowns, contortionists, speed juggling and fiesta - every well choreographed sequence tantalizes the imagination and invigorates the senses.

The first dream features a woman dressed as a graceful monarch butterfly running through a field of flowers as a large steel horse gallops around her and the stage rotates. 

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

The next scene showcases 3 men tossing a woman high into the air as she flips and twists, landing gracefully on their palms!

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

The spine-bending contortionist was unbelievable and in the swing act, artists propelled themselves across the stage between two swaying planks at unimaginable distances while performing amazing aerial gymnastics.

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

Luzia is a lot to take in and at times it seems overwhelming as the energy on stage crescendos all around you. One of my favorite aesthetic elements was the beautiful curtain of water that poured down from above the stage while projecting animals and floral silhouettes within the rain!

Although I’ve seen shows with impressive athleticism, this particular adventure left me speechless! If you are looking for something memorable to do for special occasions, date night and family fun, I highly recommend seeing Luzia!

Photo Credit: Laurence Labat / Costumes: Giovanna Buzzi / 2016 Cirque du Soleil

For more information and to purchase tickets you can visit the website by clicking HERE

EOS Shimmer Lip Balm Review

Last night I was having a conversation about my favorite lip balms because the cool fall weather is causing many of us to increase hydration. I’ve tried many chapsticks, lip oils, balms and butters but eos has remained my absolute favorite! I think it has something to do with the smooth buttery texture that lasts for hours and the cute sphere packaging that make them easy to locate in my chaotic purse.

Just as the temperature begins to drop eos has released two cute new balms that are sure to keep your pout silky-soft! The new formula has a touch of sheer shimmer for beautiful luminosity and nourishing jojoba, shea, vitamin E, olive, coconut and antioxidants provide layers of rich, radiant moisture to instantly relieve parched skin.

The balms are also free of gluten, parabens, petroleum and phthalates with a lush, creamy texture that glides on effortlessly and drenches lips in supple, rejuvenating layers. The shimmer varies between micro-particles and slightly larger glitter fragments but they don’t feel rough or chunky in the least and the pink hue has a faint tint that reminds me of a frosty snowfall - perfect for a crisp winter day!

The two new shades are Sheer Pink and Pearl, both of which feel lightweight, cushiony and super conditioning on dry, peeling skin. The new balms retail for $7.18 each and are available at drugstores nationwide! 

Crush by Rihanna: Perfume Review

There are few celebrities more popular than Barbadian bombshell - Rihanna who has dominated the music industry and sold over 54 million albums. Her unique style, sharp lyrics and sassy personality are just a few qualities that continue to mesmerize and she has recently released an intoxicating new fragrance fittingly called – Crush.

Like Rihanna, this bottle is chic, elegant and provocative. It features a large glass base that tapers off into a shiny gold cap with jewelry inspired pattern.

The inspiration for this perfume is strength, power, confidence, mystery and unapologetic balanced with a fun, feminine twist. The fragrance opens with a vibrant splash of bergamot, juicy mandarin and vivacious pink peppercorn followed by pink rose and spicy ylang drizzled in sweet red berries. The base is sultry and deep with notes of creamy musk, cedarwood and sexy patchouli.

This fragrance smells very familiar and reminds me of trendy aromas of the past with a fresh new twist only Rihanna can add! It isn’t too sugary or bold and the soft, youthful notes fade into a light, alluring scent that is ideal for everyday wear or an evening out with the girls. At first spritz it may seem a bit bold but as it blends with your body chemistry the ingredients mellow slightly and become positively enchanting!

The deep musky undertones help rein in the berry and floral notes, amping-up sensuality and playfulness which definitely dredge up flirty feelings of new love and excitement. The 100 ml bottle featured here retails for $69.00 exclusively at Shoppers Drug Mart and beautyboutique.ca. 

Paul & Joe Limited Edition Looney Tunes Collection

Remember how great it was to wake up on Saturday morning, grab a bowl of Fruit Loops and plant yourself in front of the TV to watch your favorite cartoons? Although Looney Tunes was way before my time, the influence of comedic animation trickled down from generation to generation and we all seem to have a soft spot for Tweety, Bugs and Daffy.

Paul & Joe is well known for displaying their pretty pigments in aesthetically pleasing packaging so a Looney Tunes collaboration makes perfect sense. I am also featuring a few items from - A Walk in the Park which is the brand’s floral inspired fall collection.

The Looney Tunes magnetic cases are cute as can be and retail for just $8.00 each! You can pop in your favorite refillable blush or eye color trio and have fun interchanging the packaging to suit your mood. 

I chose the pretty powder blush in the shade 04 which is a bright coral pigment and complimentary highlight. The texture is velvety smooth and creamy for easy blending and the subtle shimmer provides a hint of luminosity. The color pay-off is very buildable and the vibrancy of this shade perks up dull complexions on dreary days. The blush refill retails for $23.00.

The Pressed Face Powder Case retails for $10.00 and displays a playful scene of Tom & Jerry up to their usual shenanigans! The mirror is a great size for touch-ups on-the-go and although I would have preferred a magnetic base, the refills have a sticky backing that hold quite well. I filled my case with the Translucent Powder in 04 which absorbs excess oil for a smooth, matte finish. Because the powder isn’t completely translucent, applying too much or insufficient blending can alter the shade of foundation. I use it sparingly to keep shine at bay and makeup fresh. The powder retails for $36.00.

These lipstick cases represent two very different styles but whether you like the cuteness of Tweety or elegant floral prints, they are both visually appealing. The blue flower design is from the limited edition fall collection inspired by prints hot off the runway!

I popped in a Lipstick refill in the shade 100 which is a soft berry hue that provides a very subtle wash of color, luminous shine and just enough moisture to keep lips looking lovely. I use this silky tint in place of lip balm because the sheerness of the finish doesn’t really qualify as lipstick. The casing retails for $7.00 and the lipstick refill is $20.00.

The Paul & Joe Eye Color in the shade 103 September Song is gorgeous! I love the smokey purple, shimmering garnet and glittery cream-pink that all match beautifully! The ultra-silky, buttery pigments apply rich and smooth with great saturation and no creasing. Although you don’t need a primer to achieve brilliant results I highly recommend one for optimum vividness. The shadow trio retails for $26.00 and this color combo is trendy for autumn!

Cat lovers are going to fall head-over-heels for the new Cheek Color with adorable kitten silhouettes and iridescent pearls. Since the pink tones and luminous finish is soft and sheer, I classify this as a highlight. It provides a radiant, natural glow but laying heavier results in a bit more coverage. Personally, I find application with the adorable little puff a bit inconsistent so I prefer to swirl a brush through the pearls or use my finger. If you want to embrace the highlight trend but don’t feel the need to join the strobing frenzy just yet, this is a good option.

This intricate casing with retro pattern is my favorite! The Cheek Color retails for $48.00.

Paul & Joe Beauty is available at beautyboutique.ca and select Shoppers Drug Mart Locations. 

Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eye Shadow Palette – The Rebel: Review & Swatches

I love incorporating unique color and texture when applying makeup and today I’m experimenting with rich green, emerald, champagne and brilliant shimmer using Charlotte Tilbury’s mesmerizing Luxury Palette!

With the changing season and holiday excitement just around the corner, this beautiful palette is perfect for adding a touch of glam to everyday looks and sexy party attire. There are 4 expertly matched shades that prime, enhance, create smokiness and add a pop of highlight plus they look amazing in any combination! The balance of shimmer, mild shimmer and glitter finishes mix and match beautifully and the champagne creates nice contrast among the various undertones of green and teal. The 4 shades are enough to create a complete look without having to reach for another palette and with the right attitude and lots of blending anyone can pull-off these stunning colors.

The texture varies by shade - the champagne is smooth, the top green is quite silky and the glitter and deep teal on the bottom are less creamy and require a little more blending and layering. Overall the pigmentation is quite good because the colors can be intensified from sheer to bold and the simplicity of the palette makes creating stunning looks quick and easy. When applied heavier, you can probably get away with not using a primer but I highly recommend one for an explosion of pure color! This pretty little palette retails for $64.00 and there are also other color combinations available.

After you’ve created a gorgeous emerald look you may want to kick it up a notch with an equally stunning lip color. Charlotte’s K.I.S.S.I.N.G Fallen From The Tree signature collection features a brilliant range of lipsticks inspired by classic icons and red carpet elegance. The luxurious, saturated color is enriched with a nourishing blend of antioxidants, extracts, oils and waxes that protect lips from environmental damage and keep them, hydrated, supple and soft. The color glides on velvety smooth and if you need a classic, everyday lipstick of superior quality I highly recommend trying these! This shade is called Night Crimson and I’ll be wearing it all season! It retails for $38.00 and is well worth the money!

If you prefer to pair these gorgeous shadows with something fresh and more neutral, the Hot Lips Matte Revolution Lipstick in the shade Sexy Sienna is another great option. This soft, peachy-pink instantly brightens the complexion and the lush, creamy texture is very moisturizing for a matte finish. This collection is also infused with UV protection and conditioning agents that prevent dryness and the color is highly pigmented. It retails for $38.00.

You can find Charlotte Tilbury at Holt Renfrew, Nordstrom and online by clicking HERE

Stila Eyes Are The Window Eye Shadow Palette Review & Swatches

When it comes to high quality pigment and stunning variety, Stila is way up there on my list of faves. I Know I’ve reviewed the popular Eyes Are The Window Palette before in the Spirit Collection but this time I’m warming things up for fall and transitioning from cool tones to warm, sultry hues.

This color collection is called Mind and along with a row of basic neutrals for transitioning, creating a base, blending and highlighting, it also has two rows of warm, rich shadows perfect for the season! The contrast of light and dark tones is always appealing and although I would have liked a few gold, copper, garnet or silvery hues for the lids, the palette has most of what I need to create the perfect day looks and deeper effects for a night out.

The middle row contains a selection of cream, grey and orange which I like using in the crease and blending with browns. The last row consists of rich, crease enhancing shades like black, deep burgundy, mocha and caramel which expertly deepen, shape and sculpt.

The texture of the shadow is smooth and easy enough to blend but a little more creaminess in the powder formulation would have made them even better! I am able to achieve a beautiful gradient and a nice level of smokiness for bold, eye-catching creations.

All of the shadows in this palette are matte so combined with the shades from the Spirit Palette (in the photo below) I have a beautiful selection to work with. (Review & swatches of this palette can be found HERE).

As mentioned I don’t think this range has quite enough options for the lids but the pigmentation is good so you can layer and intensify for more saturation. I highly recommend a good primer to really enhance the color but overall I have no issue with creasing or fading and I think these shades are suitable for all complexions. As you start mixing and matching, the combinations you can create are stunning and the darker shades pair beautifully with shimmers and glitter for textural versatility.

If you are looking for a nice range of essential shades for professional results this palette is a great option. It retails for $59.00 at Sephora.

New Lipsticks I’m Lovin For Fall!

Red lipstick is classically chic no matter what time of year but the richness of fall seems to make this sexy hue even more appealing. Today I’m sharing a few new lip colors that will go great with your autumn outfits and keep your pout on-trend for the season.

First up is Kat Von D’s Limited Edition Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in the shade Project Chimps. There are 28 swoon-worthy hues to choose from but this bold red definitely adds a sassy twist and 20% of the proceeds are donated to end the use of chimps in biomedical research. These pigments are called “everlasting” because they stay-put for hours and even hold up well through eating, drinking and smooching! This particular shade of red is universally flattering because there are no harsh red, orange or blue undertones. The formula is creamy for effortless glide and the high-intensity, ultra saturated color sets completely matte. During the cooler months lips tend to get dry so I use a primer underneath or clear gloss on top for more hydration. The lipstick retails for $24.00 at Sephora and katvondbeauty.com.

I’ve also been lovin some of the new lippies from Maybelline, particularly the Color Jolts and Bold Collection. The Jolts (also referred to as “intense lip paint”) are available in 8 pretty shades. Red-dy Or Not provides a bright pop of color that awakens the complexion and makes lips appear pouty and seductive. I absolutely love the fierce, full-coverage finish that drenches lips in layers of rich, shiny pigment and when I want a little less shine I simply apply a thinner layer and blot. The longevity is decent for liquid lipstick and as it wears away I usually get a nice fade. The moistness also keeps lips from feeling parched but when wearing such vibrant color I always exfoliate the night before. Personally I find the little squeeze tube and slanted felt applicator quite easy to use and the tip helps trace the lip contour. The jolts retail for $9.96 at drugstores nationwide.

I thought I’d go ahead and throw in a deep purple lipstick for good measure since it is my favorite color! 830 Violet Vixen is part of the new Loaded Bolds Collection which also includes unique pigments like white, dark teal and even black! This provocative purple will take your fall makeup look to a saucy new level and the creamy, delicious smelling formula coats well and layers medium to full-coverage with a luscious dose of moisture. You can pick it up for $7.96.

THEFACESHOP also released an impressive range of lipsticks called Collagen Ampoule. When I saw the shade Signature Red I just had to have it for fall! The luxurious creamy texture glides on effortlessly for hours of hydrating suppleness and comfort. The color is beautifully vivid and anti-aging ingredients help diminish the appearance of lines for a plump, pouty effect. I think lipstick addicts are going to love this formula and you can find them at THEFACESHOP stores and online at thefaceshop.ca for $25.00.

Avon Planet Spa Pampering Chocolate Skincare Collection Review

On a crisp fall day nothing beats a steaming mug of hot cocoa as I’m wrapped in a fluffy blanket with a good book. The new Planet Spa Chocolate Collection pampers the skin and tantalizes your senses with the same comforting aroma of rich cocoa minus all the calories!

Cocoa is high in antioxidants that repair cells, neutralize free radicals, improve skin texture and increase circulation. These mouth-watering products smell good enough to eat with a natural (non-artificial) aroma that I can’t seem to get enough of!

The face mask is a delectable treat for the skin and actually looks and smells like creamy chocolate spread! For fall-themed spa days, light some pumpkin spiced candles, slather on the rejuvenating formula and relax as skin is moisturized and polished. The warm, stress relieving scent and layers of lush hydration is the perfect way to unwind and undo some of the harsh environmental effects of the season. The mask retails for $10.00.

When cold weather starts to dry out my skin I love a good body butter and this delicious whip is just what I need! The luxurious, velvety texture envelops you in layers of silky moisture for hours of skin conditioning cocoa goodness! The formula is lightweight and non-greasy with a decadent aroma I dare you not to become obsessed with! The cream retails for $12.00.

For a truly indulgent shower experience the body wash lathers, cleanses and engulfs you in rich chocolaty bubbles! Aside from making you crave dessert it also foams away dirt, pollutants, oil and grime for fresh, clean skin! You can pick it up for just $9.00.

This fabulous collection is a chocolate lovers dream and for the holidays you can add them to a gift basket with a box of your favorite chocolates, hot cocoa mix and a couple cute mugs to make the perfect gift! Avon can be purchased through independent consultants and at avon.ca