Kérastase Elixir Ultime Review

Recently I’ve been reviewing new spring products and although I love the excitement of seasonal trends the cold weather hasn’t disappeared just yet. In Toronto we experienced days so frigid Jack Frost would have quivered in his boots and the cold, dry air takes a toll on our skin and hair.

I decided to begin a serious recuperation mission to revive my parched mane and infuse some much needed moisture. The new Elixir Ultime Collection by Kérastase enriched with 4 precious oils is just want I need to reverse the effects of winter and prepare for warmer days. Natural oils such as walnut, almond and coriander boosts strength and shine while grape seed and cranberry regenerate dry strands with intensive antioxidants. The combination of camellia, pracaxi, argan and maize sprout oils further strengthen and fortify damaged, weak strands.

Using precious oils also contributes to hair growth and the rich omega-3 fatty acids create a protective barrier to shield hair from external damage. Since I love the effects of a good conditioner I had to try the Elixir Ultime Beautifying Oil Rinse-Out. This product can be applied after shampoo to soften, hydrate and boost the shine levels of dull, lackluster hair. The creamy formula smells wonderful and coats each strand in a veil of lush, silky conditioner which detangles and makes hair feel incredibly light, smooth and bouncy! When I don’t have time for a deep treatment masque I use this one instead and the steam from my shower intensifies the moisturizing benefits for super soft hair. I recommend leaving it in for at least ten minutes for the best reparative results but even 5 mins works wonders! The conditioner retails for $49.00.

If I am going to use a shampoo with sulfates then its best that the formula is also nourishing to counteract the drying effects. The Elixir Ultime Shampoo cleanses thoroughly to get rid of build-up, product film and greasiness but because it includes a blend of oils it doesn’t leave my hair feeling stripped or brittle. Like most products from this brand it smells irresistible and lathers well to purify the scalp and hair from root to tip. After shampooing and conditioning with these products I notice an instant improvement in the texture of my hair plus increased body and volume! The shampoo retails for $44.00.

Sometimes even after conditioning your hair needs a leave-in that will provide longer lasting results and extra protection. The Elixir Ultime Oil is fabulous for replenishing dry, damaged hair and instilling flexibility, strength and moisture. The texture of the oil feels more silky than greasy and that silkiness is transferred to your tresses for a glossy, healthy sheen. It also helps smooth rough cuticles, improves the look of fuzzy, unruly strands and split-ends while boosting the resiliency of color treated hair for sensual softness. A little goes a long way with this formula and it can be applied to both wet and dry hair. When I flat iron my hair into sleek, straight styles this oil lightly perfumes and keeps all strands lustrous, satiny and in place. When used on my natural curls I apply it on damp, clean hair and it makes my ringlets bouncy and soft. The oil retails for $56.00.

Braids have been making a strong comeback both on the runway and for simple everyday looks. To help keep you trendy and fashionable Kerastase has released the Book Of Braids showcasing basic techniques and complex creations from your classic French braid to styles for the gym, weddings, work, date night, special events, vacations and more! 

To help get you started Kerastase has some fabulous styling items to keep your savvy creations in place all day! I use a variety of fantastic finishing products from this brand but one helpful braiding buddy is the Matérialiste Gel Spray. This formula provides flexible hold without the crunchy stiffness or white, flaky residue for great definition. The gel is also infused with a thickening ingredient that expand each hair fiber for a voluminous effect ideal for creating a variety of textured, glamorous styles. I also use it to keep my natural curls beautifully formed and frizz-free. The gel retails for $40.00.

If you need thickness at the roots then the Lifting Vertige helps create the voluminous bombshell styles you crave. It also has built-in heat protection and medium hold. You can pick it up for $40.00.

For more info or to find a list of salons for purchase click HERE

NeoStrata Celebrates Fashion Week With Gifts For All + Enter To Win A $311 NeoStrata Prize Pack!

It’s almost that time again! Designers are getting ready to display their hottest new creations, the models are prepping for the runway and fashion buffs are grabbing tickets to all the must-see new collections. During Fashion Week I am usually busy attending shows and getting some backstage coverage of all the excitement but one sponsor I never fail to check out is NeoStrata. To make sure your skin is red carpet ready the brand has teamed up with Shoppers Drug Mart to offer an exclusive, limited edition gift!

With any NeoStrata purchase of $45.00 or more at Shoppers Drug Mart Canadians will receive a Toronto Fashion Week Gift valued at $49.99! This great deal will be offered to Canadians across the country beginning on March 12^th through March 26^th (or while supplies last).

The gift includes a mini Microdermabrasion Skin Resurfacing Duo, which is one of my favorite products! We all know that exfoliation is key to sloughing away dead, dull cells in order to achieve a healthy, radiant complexion and NeoStrata's exfoliating duo is the next best thing to a professional microderm treatment. To use you simply apply the crystals and massage gently for about one minute, then add the activator and massage for another two minutes. The crystals provide wonderful revitalizing benefits so skin appears smooth, supple and polished after just one use. The Activator also releases powerful anti-aging ingredients to enhance skin clarity and boost radiance!

Also included in the gift box is the popular Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Lotion. Glycolic Acid has been called a miracle worker for its ability to penetrate deeply, and treat fine lines, acne, blackheads, discoloration, age spots, dullness and oiliness.

As if that wasn’t enough of an incentive to stock up on your favorite NeoStrata products I have also teamed up with the brand to host another amazing giveaway! One lucky reader will win SIX fabulous products with a combined value of $311.00.

The Prize will include:

  *(1) Skin Resurfacing Duo 75.00

*(1) Night Repair Cream $39.00

                    *(1) Secure White Brightening Serum $49.00

                                *(1) Secure White Anti Dark Circle Complex $38.00

                               *(1) Wrinkle Repair Moisturizing CC Cream $70.00

    *(1) Vitamin C Concentrate $40.00

This giveaway is open to Canadian residents and to qualify you must be following my blog via Google Friends Connect OR Bloglovin and at LEAST TWO of my social media accounts. The giveaway ends on April 10, 2015 at 12 am EST and some entry methods are allowed daily. GOOD LUCK!!

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Giveaway Winner Announcement!

There were 10,624 entries in this giveaway which is awesome! Thanks to everyone who participated and who continues to support my blog, you rock! The winner is....Amy S. from Ontario. Congratulations Amy, I hope you enjoy these amazing products as much as I do!

If you didn’t win this time please stay tuned for more great beauty posts and prizes. I will have a fabulous international makeup giveaway starting soon which will include a variety of popular brands.

Disclaimer and Rules: (Please Read)

This NeoStrata giveaway hosted by Diary of a Trendaholic Blog is open to Canadian residents only and is sponsored by NeoStrata Skincare. One winner will be chosen at random via Rafflecopter (random.org) to receive (1) Skin Resurfacing Duo, (1) Night Repair Cream, (1) Secure White Brightening Serum, (1) Secure White Anti Dark Circle Complex (1) Wrinkle Repair CC Cream and (1) Vitamin C Concentrate, with a total prize value of $311.00 CA as outlined in this review post. All information must be entered correctly as specified via Rafflecoptor and entrants must be following at least 2 of my social media accounts and my blog via Bloglovin or Google Friends Connect (GFC) to qualify, (only viable entries will be considered). This giveaway begins on Saturday March 12, 2016 and ends on Sunday April 10, 2016 at 12am Eastern Time Zone.

            One eligible winner will be announced on http://diaryofatrendaholic.blogspot.ca/ within two weeks following the giveaway end date and entrants must be at least 18 years of age to participate. The winner must send their name, full mailing address (no PO Box addresses) and phone number to diaryofatrendaholic@outlook.com to receive the prize. Winners will also be contacted by email if a valid email address is provided. In the event that the winner does not claim the prize within 3 days after being contacted a second winner will be selected at random or another thereafter until the prize is claimed. Falsified entries or entries that cannot be verified may be disqualified at the discretion of the blog owner.

         Diary of a Trendaholic is not responsible for a lost package(s), delays, damages or any other issues that occur during shipping, handling, processing or mailing. In the event of unforeseen circumstances the brand (NeoStrata) may choose to send a replacement prize equal to or differing from the original giveaway prize depending on product availability. The nature of any prize substitution will be decided on at the sole discretion of the host and sponsor without any additional notification or permission. The blog owner or sponsor may also choose not to replace or substitute the prize and there will be no cash alternative offered under any circumstance. NeoStrata Skincare is responsible for shipping and all shipping costs pertaining to this giveaway.

All beauty products received by the giveaway winner must be used at his or her discretion in compliance with the directions on the product (s). The blog owner and sponsor is not responsible for any adverse skin or medical reactions associated with the use of any product(s) sent to the winner. By accepting the prize the winner completely releases the blog owner of all legal liability pertaining to any and all side effects associated with the use of the products won.

By accepting the prize the winner(s) agrees to comply with the rules and regulations herein which cannot be contested including the use of any legal action against the blog owner or NeoStrata. The blog owner reserves the right to amend or cancel this giveaway at any time without prior notice. Entrants will be deemed to have accepted the official terms and conditions (“the rules”) and are agreed to be bound by them. By entering this giveaway you agree to the collection of personal information however your details will not be used or disclosed to other persons or entities. 

The promotion of this giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered or associated with Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest, Facebook or any other social media sites and blogging platforms. By participating you agree to a complete release of any liability for all websites that may have been used to promote this giveaway.

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Canada Contests at AllCanadaContests.com

NEW Makeup from Wet n Wild: 2016 Collection Review

In January I was invited to The Spoke Club to sip drinks, indulge in tasty treats and peruse the incredible new beauty collection from Wet n Wild as the DJ spun popular beats. My fellow Beauty Editors and Bloggers all gathered around to get our nails done and chat about the impressive variety of new makeup in the 2016 collection. 

Like many of you I’ve been a fan of the brand for years, in fact when I was a teen I used Wet n Wild products to experiment and explore my creativity. Since then they have come a long way in terms of formulation, pigmentation and quality so I am excited to share some of the new products before I jet off to Florence with my sister.

The Color Icon 8 shade eye shadow palettes have been cult faves for years. They only cost a few dollars and the quality is fabulous so when I saw the new Studio Eye Shadow Palettes I just had to test them out. There are two color collections: gold with neutral hues and purple jewel tones with deep green. The finishes range from sheer highlights, subtle mattes, metallic shimmers and glitter to create a variety of day and evening looks from tame and neutral to bold and sexy.

Both palettes look gorgeous! I wear gold shades on a daily basis because they compliment all outfits and the deep, sultry purples are perfect for smokey eyes and party looks.

The gold palette - (Coming in Latte) has a beautiful assortment of colors including sliver, beige, champagne, taupe, brown and black. It provides everything you need to create many flattering looks with soft shimmer on the lids and deep contour shades for the crease. The color pay-off isn’t as intense as I expected from Wet n Wild, some pigments are quite translucent and soft while others offer a bit more saturation. With a good primer I was able to enhance them all for the vibrancy and effect I desired but it took a bit of layering. The texture isn’t as silky or soft as I prefer but it isn’t gritty or flaky either so I have no issues with application or fall-out. If you are looking for a simple yet affordable gold palette with pretty hues then this one gets the job done.

The purple-green palette called Quartz Center packs more of a punch when it comes to pigmentation and there are no matte shades. The finishes are shimmer and glitter although the glitter is more concentrated on the top layer and becomes less evident as you dig past. The great thing about this palette is that you still get a bit of gold and silver plus the shades all compliment each other beautifully. The darker shadows (especially the rich, creamy greens) seem to have a lot more color pay-off than the lighter hues but with primer and a bit of layering you can enhance them all for deep, smoldering looks! (The Studio Palettes are not currently available in Canada).

Since highlighting and contouring has been all the rage the new collection includes radiant compacts to help you get your glam on! The To Reflect Shimmer Palettes are quite large and available in 3 pretty color combos. Sand-Gria-Castles is my favorite because the golden-champagne produces a warm, iridescent glow that looks great on all skin tones. Although the texture of these aren’t as smooth or silky as expected you can use them wet or dry which is quite unique for a highlight. The compact has a wild animal print reminiscent of the brand’s edgy style and the finish is quite subtle and soft with no large glittery chunks. A light sweep over the cheekbones revives dull complexions for that dewy, light reflecting sheen that is so trendy right now!

If you prefer more of a silvery-pink highlight then the - I’ll Have a Cosmo Palette may be more your style. The sheer color puts the finishing touch on all your looks for that healthy luminous effect we all crave. (Not available in Canada)

Sticking with the topic of strobing, the Mega Glo Illuminating Palette has 4 strips of pretty pigment for versatility. These shades have more glitter compared to the palettes above but they are quite sheer, light and pretty. If you don’t know what type of glow you prefer or you want to travel with a selection of highlights then this compact is a great option. It includes: light yellow-gold, silver, bronzy-pink and golden for a fresh faced effect. You can also sweep your brush over the entire palette and lightly dust the powder over the face and body. The compact retails for $5.99.

Highlighting and sculpting go hand-in-hand so the brand also released the MegaGlo Contouring Palette in two shade duos. The compact I have – Caramel Toffee is the deeper of the two with a nice rich brown hue. Initially I thought these shades were going to have more of a flaky, powder finish but they don’t! I really like the quality of the cream-powder texture because the smoothness of the pigments blend and build-up very well so you can shape and define as little or as much as you like! The highlight shade also has a nice creamy texture and the matte finish enhances your best features and brightens the under eye and cheekbone area. This is a definite hit and it retails for just $5.99.

Let’s take a break from the face and move on to the lips! The Wet n Wild Mega Slicks Lip Gloss is now available in 15 new shades and I love the juicy vividness! Of course I chose bold colors but they do have a selection of neutral tones if you prefer. I have the shades: My Cherry Amour which is a bright red with a tinge of orange, Berried Treasure - basic pink and That’s My Jam - a deep, purple berry hue. If you are looking for affordable, simple, sheer gloss these are decent. The formula is creamy, non-sticky, fruity and enriched with aloe and vitamins to hydrate and nourish. Even though they are quite sheer they still provide a nice pop of shiny color especially the deeper shades which can be enhanced and applied over lipsticks. The gloss retails for $3.59 each.

The Velvet Matte Lip Color Pencils are available in 9 shades and are a bit tamer if you prefer a soft finish. I picked up - Turn Orange and Berry Tales which are light, non-drying and creamy with very subtle, sheer color. Charred Cherry however is deep and rich with vivid pigmentation so not surprisingly it is my favorite of the three. It has a pretty mauve-pink finish and I like that the pencils twist up (no sharpening required) for easy access. (Not currently available in Canada)

The blushes from Wet n Wild have always been some of my faves because they are long lasting and usually have amazing pigmentation! The two new shades I have are Mellow Wine and Fantastic Plastic Pink which needs no explanation. The Wine shade has a cream-powder velvety texture that is easy to blend and suitable for all complexions. It also has good pigmentation to add shape and dimension to the face. The light pink isn't really my cup of tea and has a few chunky glitter particles. It may be better suited for fair complexions. The blush retails for $4.99 each.

To help set your makeup and keep everything intact the Photo Focus De Fixation Spray provides a refreshing mist to seal the deal. The spray comes in a mini bottle which is great for travel and although the formula takes a few minutes to dry it does provide some moisture for dry skin without a greasy residue or film. I tested it out for a few days and found that it prevents colors from fading and really does keep makeup fresher for longer! It also has a nice light scent and retails for $5.99.

The Mattifying Powder is something many of us need on long days spent in makeup and when the weather heats up. The formula is infused with light reflecting silica beads that absorb oil and minimize shine to keep you non-greasy and matte. The compact comes with a powder puff for application or touch ups on-the-go and although it is lightweight and translucent for all skin tones the drier texture makes it a bit tedious to blend seamlessly so I prefer to pat it on with a flat top kabuki brush. If you do have oily skin or wear oil based foundation then this is an affordable, quick fix. (Not currently available in Canada)

The Long Lasting Eye Shadow Primer ($5.99) is formulated to prep and brighten the lids, lock down and enhance color and prolong the wear of eye makeup. It provides a crease-free, matte base that dries invisible and it does help intensify colors especially sheer shadows and lighter hues. It doesn’t give me the same results as my higher-end primers but if you are looking for an affordable option it does help improve application.

The Lash Primer ($5.99) is designed to help create the perfect base for mascara by adding volume and length. It is also infused with vitamins to help strengthen, condition, promote lash health and nourish hair which is a nice bonus! Like most lash primers the formula is white and although I don’t usually prep my lashes with a base it does seem to give me a little extra length. 

Wet n Wild can be found at Walmart, Loblaws, Rexall, and Lawtons. Although this post was a bit lengthy there is still more in the collection so stay tuned to see the new nail polishes and cute makeup brushes!

Mary Kay Limited Edition Into The Garden Collection Review: Spring 2016

The last few weeks have been cold...very cold but Mary Kay’s Into The Garden Collection welcomes spring with fresh scents, pretty florals and soft color palettes. The brand has included a wonderful array of products to pamper the skin, awaken the senses and keep you stylish with the hottest seasonal trends. In collaboration with Mary’s Kay’s Global Makeup Artist – Sebastian Correa the collection was created by acclaimed fashion designer Patricia Bonaldi who is known for her illuminating embroidery and unparalleled glamour.

The Into The Garden Color Compact is as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside! I love the feminine pastel hues, multicolored roses and lace trim.

The palette includes 4 mesmerizing shadows: Natural Taupe, Light Pink, Violet and Plum Brown plus 3 lip colors: Nude, Pink and Coral for a romantic, whimsical effect. The eye shadows may look quite simple and basic but they are stunning once applied and all four shades mix, match and blend beautifully with each other. The texture is very good quality with a velvety smooth, powder-cream formulation that yields great color pay-off and buildable, non-creasing coverage.

I like using the deep plum-brown in the crease and intensifying the pigment on the outer corners. The other three shades are all beautiful on the lids but my fave is the multidimensional shimmery purple and the frosty pink which highlights and beautifully accentuates. Paired with a good primer these elegant shadows are saturated yet soft and suitable for all complexions.

The lip gloss is creamy and sheer with a hydrating texture and a light layer of radiant shine. Although there are 3 shades the peachy hue applies completely colorless and the other two are also translucent with very little pigmentation. Paired with the eye shadows, the gloss is very simple and fresh but I did expect a tad more color intensity. The palette retails for $45.00.

The Nail Lacquers are soft pastels: Pink Magnolia, Coral Blossom and Steel Lilac. Each color is creamy, easy to work with and applies opaque in 2 coats. They retails for $10.00 each.

The Nail Appliqués are delicate, detailed and beautiful! The designs include meshed lace with tiny pearls and two pink floral prints with touches of pearl and lace. They match beautifully with the nail polishes to create a variety of interesting manis with gorgeous accent nails. The decals retail for $10.00 (per 16).

When it comes to bar soap I am quite picky as many drugstore varieties are drying. The Into The Garden Soap Set however is formulated with sodium palmate instead of sulfate and infused with nourishing shea butter so the formula is creamy, lightly moisturizing and magnificently scented. The bars are individually wrapped in a beautiful box and lightly perfume the skin in an invigorating bouquet of flowers and sweetness while gently cleansing. The set of 3 retails for $20.00.

With spring around the corner you can soon prepare to break out your sandals once again! To make sure your feet are in tip-top shape Mary Kay has added a great pedicure set to the Garden Collection. It includes the toe tickling citrus scented Foot Scrub, Foot Fizzies which can be added to your footbath, toe seperators and a nail file which all comes in a handy mesh gift bag. It retails for $35.00.

Mary Kay’s Oil Absorbing Blotters are bestsellers and they are always in my purse for touch-ups on the go. For those who have oily skin these are great for mattifying and when you wear makeup and foundation (most of which are oil based) these soak up the grease so you appear radiant without looking sweaty. Most packages I’ve purchased include 25-50 papers but this pack has 75 sheets and super cute packaging! They are also perfect for vacationing, weddings and other events to keep makeup looking fresh. The pack retails for $8.50.

No collection is complete without a fabulous fragrance and Forever Diamonds is inspired by special milestones in a woman’s life – her engagement, wedding day, anniversaries and beyond. The bottle is simple yet sophisticated with a jewel cut cap and the scent is bold, modern and ultra feminine. The top notes are: jasmine petals, golden peach and diamond orchid with middle notes of tuberose absolute, delicious apricot and heliotrope. The bottom notes are: white amber, radiant musk, Madagascar vanilla bean and soft wood for depth, sensuality and complexity. This perfume is great for everyday wear but also transitions well into the evening for a night out on the town. The fragrance retails for $50.00 and you can enhance the aroma by pairing it with the intoxicating body lotion and shower gel for $22.00 each or if you want the trio you can get it for $82.00.

I love comfy sweaters and cute scarves but when the grass greens and the flowers bloom I have the option to show a bit more skin and rock my stylish skirts. Cellulite impacts 90% of women and sometimes it is due to hormones and genetics rather than weight. Although there is no cure for these stubborn ripples there are products that may improve skin’s appearance and I am a firm believer that exercise can also tone up the area. To help you put your best leg forward Mary Kay has released the new TimeWise Smooth Action Cellulite Gel Cream ($45.00) which is formulated with glycolic acid, caffeine, argan oil, botanicals and marine extracts.

When used with the Cellulite Massager ($12.00) to help energize the area and improve circulation the fast absorbing, non-greasy cream visibly minimizes the appearance of cellulite and leaves skin looking smooth, firm and tight. Most users saw an 87% improvement in just 9 weeks and it is easy to incorporate into your beauty routine to treat your problem areas. The massager also feels good when used on the back for stress relieving muscle relaxation so I definitely recommend purchasing them together for $52.00.

You can find Mary Kay products online by clicking HERE or through independent beauty consultants.  

NYX Highlight & Contour Pro Palette Review + Color Correcting Concealer

If your sculpting game is on-point then you probably noticed that the NYX Contour Palette is a big hit with beauty junkies and makeup artists. When I attended the launch party for the Canadian store it was one of the first items to go and girls were snatching it up faster than I could swatch a lipstick! With new makeup trends popping up all the time including strobing, clown contouring and even spoon contouring it seems like the chiselled look is here to stay.

I’m all for defined, sexy facial structure so this palette has finally made its way into my collection. I like having a variety of shades to customize my look, from light shading to deeper definition and everything in-between. With 4 highlight colors and 4 matte brown hues this palette is quite versatile so you can achieve the perfect profile for all your selfies!

The packaging is sturdy, sleek and simple plus each circle is refillable so you can pop them out and replace or alternate as needed.

I have issues with contour colors that aren’t true browns and I’ve come across formulas that were ashy or lacking the richness I prefer but these hues are wonderful! Each brown is deep and nicely pigmented so you can intensify them for the perfect facial shape and elongate or slim the nose. The smooth, silky powder adheres well to brushes and transfers effortless to skin without much fall-out for fabulous color pay-off.

The highlights have different undertones including silver/white, pink, yellow and beige/champagne for a variety of complexions. They are soft and finely milled for a seamless, luminous finish and there is one shimmery shade among the soft mattes for a radiant glow. The powders brighten the under eye area and cheekbones to accentuate your best features and revive dull skin.

The pigments are lightweight, long wear and non-creasing so you can layer without caking. This is a great set for beginners who are experimenting with contour and for professionals. On my medium complexion I can use every shade in the palette depending on the depth of contour and the effect I want. The powders blend very well so if applied correctly you won’t end up with unsightly dark streaks and they can also be used on the eyes to define the crease and prime the lids. The palette retails for $27.00.

I’ve been on a continuous hunt to find the perfect corrector and like the contour palette this one has a variety of shades for different undertones and complexions. There are 6 hues ranging from yellow, green, purple, pink and two flesh tones. The compact doesn’t include info instructing which colors to use for what so I've included a few guidelines below

Yellow - works for olive and tan skin to correct purple and blue under eye circles and viens.

Green - cancels out red areas like rosacea, blood vessels, acne or sunburn.

Purple or lilac - helps diminish yellow undertones

Pink - works well on fair skin to even out purple under eye circles and the peachy pinks help eliminate dark under eye circles.

Neutrals - conceal skin tones with no prominent undertones.

Orange - conceals dark circles, spots and discoloration on medium and deep skin.

If I have a pimple and need to correct redness and blotchy areas the green is fine, otherwise I find myself using the neutral shade which slightly minimizes and corrects the darkness under my eyes. What this palette lacks is a deep orange but NYX does offer a Correct, Conceal, Contour Palette (see photo below) in medium and deep if this one doesn’t look right for you.

The texture of the pigments is very creamy with good color pay-off so you can swipe them on a tad heavier if need be and blend well so they don’t crease. The palette retails for $14.00.

I want to finish the post by highlighting some of the brand’s most popular lip products, the Soft Matte Lip Creams and Intense Butter Gloss. From Neutrals and nudes to classics like red, pink, wine, plum and orange plus shocking shades including blue, lilac and black there is a color for everyone!

The Lip Creams are sumptuously smooth, vivid and silky with a matte finish and a light, moisturizing formula to enhance your pout. These pretty pigments drench lips in bold, knockout color that can be layered sheer to full coverage to suit your mood.

Shades from left to right: Addis Ababa, London, Ibiza, Black Cherry Tart

The hydrating, comfortable texture glides on buttery for easy application and makes lips feel plush.

The Butter Gloss which is the deepest shade in the photo (Black Cherry Tart) has the same creamy, lush texture but the finish is shiny. The lip products retail for just $9.00 each and are totally worth checking out!

You can now find NYX Cosmetics at Shoppers Drug Mart and visit NYX Canada by clicking HERE

Sanuk Shoe Review

Before I was contacted to try out an innovative concept in the world of footwear I was not familiar with Sanuk but like most fashionistas I never say no to shoes! Being new to the brand I didn’t know what to expect and much of the online collection looked very casual, laid back, eco-chic and hippy. As I did more research I learned that the line was created by a free-spirited surfer who set out to build a brand that is as much about fun as it is about function, creativity and innovation.

Sanuk is the Thai word for fun and the brand is very much about leisure with its most popular designs being the Yoga Mat Sandals and the Sidewalk Surfer - the world’s first sandal-shoe hybrid. The spirit of the brand evokes adventure, art and freedom which is why the shoes are very earthy and basic.

Although I do consider myself pretty adventurous and a world traveler my style is more glam than Boho-chic but there are shoes on the website that I like. One of the main reasons I wanted to try this brand is because I am tired of uncomfortable, pinching styles that look cute but kill my feet. Sometimes it’s okay to sacrifice fashion for comfort but other times you want to be able to go about your day without having your foot warped into the unnatural vertical angle of your high heels.

For me another major benefit of having a pair of shoes made for real life is simply for walking! This may be the most comfortable pair of shoes I have ever owned, in fact it doesn’t even feel like my feet are in shoes, they feel more like my favorite pair of well worn house slippers that have become a source of comfort and relaxation.

The style I got is called KATLASH and they are made of a very light, breathable fabric with a flexible sole for range of motion. They retail for $85.00 and are also available in light grey (shown below).

When I vacation in Europe the cobblestones and long days of constant walking really takes a toll on my feet. These shoes are going to Florence with me on Friday because they fit well, are incredibly comfortable and they don’t pinch or squeeze any part of my feet! I can also wear them for walking long distances and they are even great for jogging.

As mentioned many of the styles from Sanuk are quite simple and hippy but the pair I got are quite stylish for leisure shoes and go well with jeans, yoga pants or shorts. I love that they slip on and off with ease and they are great for active days and running errands.

With a motto like “never uncomfortable” the brand has big shoes to fill...(pun totally intended) and they definitely deliver! If you have foot or associated lower back pain I think these are some of the best shoes to help your sore, tired feet recover! The collection also includes ballet flats, flip flops, boots and more in many prints and shades.

If you need a pair of super comfortable shoes that your feet will love visit the website by clicking HERE.

Mèreadesso Beautiful Body Balm Review

Can a body cream actually go to the gym for you? Well the sumptuously rich Mèreadesso Body Balm has an innovative formula that helps decrease bloating and tone skin but before you nibble that chocolate let’s talk ingredients.

mèreadesso is known for expertly combining the benefits of many products and condensing them into one bottle for easy application, efficiency and convenience. The high performance body balm is infused with an impressive blend of 8 vitamins and 28 globally sourced botanical extracts including: skin nourishing grape seed oil, witch hazel, olive oil, oat, Arabica  coffee, wintergreen, white tea, horse chestnut, Brazilian cocoa seed, licorice, Montana flower oil, algae extract, soybean and much more!

Along with being an excellent body treatment for men and women of all ages it can also be used to moisturize the hands, cuticles, and feet. It’s basically a head-to-toe ultra rich, hydrating lotion that smooths skin, improves texture, eradicates dryness and leaves the body soft, silky and supple all day!

If getting rid of dry, cracked, peeling skin and discomfort isn’t impressive enough the cream also reduces water retention and helps break down cellulite! Now I don’t know about you but anything that helps reduce water weight is a bonus in my book, especially when traveling to hot, humid climates or during that time of the month. Along with fighting bloat it also minimizes the appearance of scars and stretch marks!

Due to the abundance of natural ingredients the lotion has a fresh botanical scent, similar to the aroma you experience as you walk into a luxury spa. After a warm, relaxing shower the soothing formula makes my skin feel incredibly supple and refreshed almost like winter never even happened!

Although I didn’t notice any slimming or shaping results yet I do like the added protection against the elements and the improved resiliency of  my skin. I also like that the formula is fast absorbing, easy to distribute and has no greasy residue so it doesn’t transfer to clothes or bedding. It is even gentle enough to use after cosmetic procedures and on babies!

This all-in-one breakthrough formula is a secret weapon for kicking winter's butt and for youthful looking skin, it retails for $54.00 and you can visit the website by clicking HERE.