Joe Fresh Beauty: Makeup Review

Joe Fresh is known for their modern clothing that is stylish and functional to accommodate your busy lifestyle. Recently the brand launched a beauty collection that showcases more than 150 products ranging from $8-$18 at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix locations across Canada. Like the fashion, the makeup is simple yet essential and can be incorporated into your daily routine to create trendy, quick looks with ease. The collection includes everything from brow tint, liquid foundation, mascara, eyeliner, lip products, blush and more to create a variety of fun looks.

A few weeks ago I attended the launch party to swatch some of the pretty new makeup. In terms of foundation and concealer, currently the shade selection is quite limited but this may change as the collection expands. Today I will be featuring some of my favorites from the line including the gorgeous Lip Crèmes and a couple of the sumptuous Lip Veils.

The shade range is reminiscent of the brand - basic yet beautiful! There are flattering pinks, rich reds, wine, berry and neutrals which are the most popular, wearable hues. The Lip Crèmes are luxuriously smooth and lush with amazing pigmentation! The applicator is quite average but does a good job swiping on the rich formula which provides intense, full-coverage color.

If you like bold, hydrating color (and many of us do) you need to get your hands on some of these beauties! The vibrant shades don't cause dryness and the cushiony, comfortable texture makes lips look plush and pouty!

Although the chic tubes look like your run of the mill lip glosses don’t be fooled! You won’t get mediocre translucent pigment or any stickiness with these crèmes. They aren’t glossy but they do have a touch of luminosity and the colors are quite solid but not heavy or thick. When it comes to lip products, formulas like this are at the top of my list for their vivid, knockout color and longevity.

The Lip Veils look exactly like the Crèmes because they come in the same packaging but the color selection is a tad more neutral (see swatches). They have a similar  texture - creamy, rich and moisturizing but the color pay-off is sheerer and not quite full-coverage. You can layer the Veils to medium pigmentation and they are still quite bold and fresh.

When the color wears away some of the brighter hues do leave behind a slight stain but they make my lips feel soft so they are a definite hit! The Crèmes and Veils retail for $12.00 each.

Continuing with the theme of fabulous lip products the Matte Lipsticks are not to be missed! I started off with the shade Scarlet which is a deep, sexy wine hue and loved it so much that I needed more! Okay maybe I didn’t NEED more...that might just be the lip junkie in me talking but these lipsticks also have a great formulation.

The shades are true mattes so the color is scintillating and intense but they still have a comfortable creamy texture that is lightweight without sucking the moisture out of lips and leaving them dry. They glide on buttery smooth and drench lips in soft pigment that doesn’t feather or bleed. Although the colors are quite rich you can still achieve sheer to medium coverage if you prefer to tone them down.

Neon Red, Scarlet & Melon

Cream blush is usually not my preferred formula because I like using a brush for application and some apply quite blotchy. The Joe Fresh Blush Sticks however surprised me! The creamy pigment can be swiped on directly from the tube or dabbed onto the cheeks with fingers and the creamy formulation blends effortlessly for a beautiful flush that transforms into power.

The texture is incredibly, fresh and buildable to instantly revive dull complexions with a dose of healthy color and they apply seamlessly and sheer for all day wear. The Blush Sticks only come in four shades and most of them are quite neutral so I would love to see some deep berry hues in the future. The shades below are Peach Dream which is perfect for spring and the brighter hue is Rose which is flattering on all complexions. The blush retails for $10.00.

The brand also released some small highlight palettes and highlight sticks. I have the shade - Luster which has a gorgeous silver-champagne undertone. This is another product that pleasantly surprised me, I was expecting a basic powder formula but what I got was a powder-cream hybrid that is ultra smooth and velvety. This color isn’t sparkly, glittery or intense but it has good pigmentation and provides a soft, natural glow which is more favorable. The highlight blends well and catches the light beautifully for radiant looking skin. It retails for just $8.00.

On a completely different note I couldn’t end this article without showing you my pretty new earrings!

The next time you are perusing the isles at Shoppers head over to the beauty section and swatch some of these formulas, you won’t be able to resist walking out of there with at least one product!
Click HERE for more details.

Clarins Instant Glow Spring 2016 Makeup Review

It is still quite cold and dreary in Toronto as winter seems to be lingering on but spring is on the horizon with the debut of trendy makeup! Nothing perks me up more than pretty new products and the Clarins Instant Glow Collection is all about luminous fresh hues that evoke confidence and everyday elegance.

The Limited Edition Natural Glow Eye Palette is simple, chic and totally gorgeous! These warm, earthy hues enriched with plant extracts and minerals are my go-to colors! You can’t go wrong with these illuminating pops of champagne, matte beige, brilliant gold, rich bronze and sultry brown-black. They compliment all complexions from light to dark and whether I’m running errands, out with the girls or having fun at a party these shades go with all outfits! Another great thing about this palette is its seasonal versatility, you can rock these colors any time of the year and still be totally on-trend!

The texture is silky and slightly creamy for smooth buildable coverage. You can go from subtle shimmer to intense eye catching creations by simply layering. The shades that don’t have a metallic sheen are the beige and deep brown-black which are perfect for highlighting under the brows and contouring the crease. These shadows are very wearable and the small palm-sized palette is ideal for travel, it retails for $39.00.

I am obsessed with this next shadow fittingly named Silver Plum because the sparkling color emits a radiant glow that is hard to resist! The Ombre Iridescente single shadows enriched with finely ground bamboo powder and vitamin E are available in a range of flattering neutral tones. The texture is a luxurious combination of powder and cream for ultra smooth application and a soft, seductive finish.

The color pay-off is wonderful so primer is not required and if you don’t have a brush on-hand, simply swipe on the pigment with your finger. The shadow can be enhanced effortlessly for bold saturation and seamless, crease-free color that looks stunning! Although this shade is quite rich for spring you can use it to create the perfect smokey eye which is always in style! It retails for $25.00.

The Rouge Eclat Lipstick Collection incorporates petal perfect pinks with the shade 23 Hot Rose and 24 Pink Cherry. Like all the Clarins lipsticks I own, the packaging is sophisticated, the scent is delicious and the formula is nourishing.

Infused with a conditioning blend of plant waxes, mimosa, jojoba, sunflower and cocoa the color glides on buttery smooth and drenches lips in layers of luminous shine.

The light hydrating texture is perfect for dry lips and since it isn’t full-coverage you get a pretty wash of soft color without the full intensity of a solid lipstick. The velvety pigments can go from sheer to medium coverage with a few swipes and they make lips look full and dazzling. The Rouge Eclat Lipsticks retail for $28.00 each.

A cheerful flush of spring blush can really brighten up a dull complexion and add a dose of healthy color. The Multi-Blush in the shade 05 Rose is perfect for the season with fresh pink undertones and a creamy texture that transforms into a powder finish once blended. Infused with rose, jojoba and plant waxes that help protect skin, the photochromoatic pigments melt onto the cheeks for a smooth soft focus finish. If you prefer subtle blush this formula has a very delicate sheer effect that appears as natural as the flush you get on a cool autumn day. I like that the compact is very small and portable but you do have to apply it with your fingers as a brush doesn’t really deposit enough color. You can get this spring beauty for $30.00.

The Clarins Spring Collection is available in department stores, pharmacies and at clarins.ca

Bella Aura Skincare Review & Giveaway!

I love discovering new products especially when they are 100% natural and infused with amazing botanicals. Today I am happy to introduce you to one of my new organic obsessions – Bella Aura, a brand that captures the exotic, nourishing benefits of Moroccan ingredients infused with 7 vitamins, high performance peptides, minerals and skin loving omega acids!

I want to take a moment to describe the lush, velvety texture of these incredible concoctions because they are quite unique and innovative. The formulas in this range are water based and enriched with botanicals making them very light and fast absorbing with a refreshing finish. The thing I love most is that each chic glass bottle is infused with rich conditioning oils that are expertly blended, resulting in a fabulous hybrid elixir of lotion and oil. During the winter my skin tends to be quite dehydrated so I usually layer my moisturizer with an oil or serum for extra hydration. With this collection you get everything you need in each bottle so layering is not required to treat and alleviate dry skin.

The Antioxidant Booster is a powerful detoxing blend that protects against negative elements in the environment and brightens the complexion to promote youthful radiance. The silky emulsion repairs and restores the skin’s natural barrier while fighting free radicals and reducing the appearance of dark spots, discoloration, blotchiness and redness. The purifying benefits also help support collagen to fight the signs of aging and with the infusion of mint, barley, jojoba, cactus extract, orange peel and more my skin is thriving! You can use the Booster day or night and although it contains natural oils it isn’t greasy or slick. To use: simply massage into skin and proceed with sunscreen and or makeup application as usual. I love how hydrated and soft my skin feels when this nutritive formula absorbs and like all products from this brand it has an invigorating botanical scent. The Antioxidant Booster retails for $148.00.

The Daily Repair Moisturizer offers intense, lightweight hydration with a breakthrough active ingredient more effective than hyaluronic acid! Not only does my face feel soft, supple and smooth after using this it also gets a blast of vitamins including: K,C,E, A,F,D and B plus all of those omega acids I mentioned earlier! The rich, fortifying blend prevents water loss, rejuvenates, rebalances, minimizes fine lines and eradicates dullness for that bright, vibrant complexion we all crave. I absolutely love this cream for long lasting defense against dryness, it retails for $128.00.

The Instant Lifting Eye Contour helps reduce the appearance of aging and is formulated to make the eye area look 6 weeks younger in just 4 weeks. It also helps reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, crow’s feet, dryness and uneven texture. The biggest issue I have with my under eye area is dark circles, partly due to poor sleep habits (I’m a night owl) and because of hereditary factors (thanks dad!).  I love how gentle this formula is on delicate skin and it absorbs quickly without irritating my eyes or feeling heavy. I have noticed that my eye area looks more revived, awake and refreshed in the mornings (even when I feel tired) and again I love the natural elements that brighten the skin. The eye cream retails for $128.00.

The Night Cellular Renewal is my favorite products in the collection because I can layer it with the Antioxidant Booster or moisturizer for incredibly hydrated, silky skin that feels amazing all night and looks healthy and revived in the morning. This powerful emulsion helps heal and optimize cellular renewal to prevent the signs of aging while you get your beauty sleep. It is ideal for all skin types including sensitive and I’d recommend it to women and men of all ages, especially if you love organic blends and detest artificial additives. The Night Renewal cream retails for $148.00.

Last but not least is the Gentle Purifying Cleanser which has the same creamy-oil texture as the other products plus vitamins and extracts. Despite the light oils in the formula it provides a soft, soap-free lather for efficient cleansing. The formula is loaded with vitamins E, B, C, omega, crushed minerals and antioxidants to eliminate impurities, nourish and protect without drying or stripping the skin. It foams away makeup residue, dirt, impurities and excess oil that can clog pores and cause blemishes leaving my face clean, soft and ready to absorb moisture with no uncomfortable tightness. The cleanser retails for $42.00 and also works well with cleansing brushes like the Clarisonic.

You can find these fabulous products online by clicking HERE

GIVEAWAY

Since I love this collection so much I have teamed up with the brand to host an amazing giveaway! One of my lovely readers will win ALL FIVE products - prize value $594.00. This giveaway is open to North American 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 March 18, 2016 at 12 am EST and some entry methods are allowed daily. More rules and regulations can be found below. Good Luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway Winner!

Thanks to everyone who entered my Bella Aura Giveaway, there were over 10,000 entries and as always I appreciate your support of my blog.  Please stay tuned for more awesome prizes & click HERE to enter my NeoStrata giveaway!

Congratulations to Analyssa from California, I hope you enjoy the skincare collection as much as I do!

Disclaimer and Rules: (Please Read)

This Bella Aura giveaway hosted by Diary of a Trendaholic Blog is open to North American residents only and is sponsored by Bella Aura Skincare. One winner will be chosen at random via Rafflecopter (random.org) to receive (1) Antioxidant Booster, (1) Daily Repair Moisturizer, (1) Instant Lifting Eye contour, (1) Night Cellular Repair and (1) Gentle Purifying Cleanser with a total prize value of $594.00 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 Thursday February 18, 2016 and ends on Friday March 18, 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 and 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 (Bella Aura) 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. Bella Aura Skincare is responsible for 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 Bella Aura Skincare. 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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Canadian Contests at AllCanadaContests.com

Dermalogica Charcoal Rescue Masque Review

If you peek inside my skincare cabinet you will find many brands but one recurring trend is my love for Dermalogica. From cleanser to exfoliants, moisturizer and masks the brand never disappoints and I recently added a new fave to my collection!

I’ve heard of charcoal enriched skincare before, in fact a few of my Japanese Konjac Sponges are infused with it but what I didn’t anticipate was how much I’d love Dermalogica’s new Charcoal Rescue Mask! This all-in-one, fast acting formula detoxifies, brightens and invigorates all skin types to rescue tired, lackluster complexions. At the end of a long week it is the perfect skin papering treatment to help you recoup and recharge for the weekend!

If you are unfamiliar with the benefits of charcoal here are a few facts:

- Charcoal attracts and absorbs dirt and oil to clear pores

- Draws out bacteria and chemicals for clear skin

- Helps fight acne and makes a great spot treatment

- Disinfects wounds

- Reduce redness and inflammation

- Great for deep cleansing

Charcoal has been a skincare trend in Japan for many years and it seems to be taking the North American Beauty industry by storm. Many high-end spas charge a lot of money to plaster your face in this dark substance but you can do your own treatment at home!

I have incorporated the Dermalogica Charcoal Masque into my weekly facial and my skin loves it! The grey formula applies like a clay mask and dries just as tight and hard. Yes it feels weird and uncomfortable when you can barely move your face but that’s just the awesome charcoal powder, volcanic ash, sea silt, witch hazel, tea tree oil and eucalyptus working to suck out all the dirt, pollutants, toxins and oil lodged deep within your pores.

Unlike some clay masks, once rinsed off this one doesn’t make my skin crave moisture. My face feels super soft, silky, supple, hydrated and smooth for total rejuvenation! It also brightens for a boost of radiance while the sulphur promotes healthy cell turnover and niacinamide reduces congestion and enlarged pores. There are also a few active ingredients that help promote collagen production for anti-aging benefits which is always a nice bonus.

Like most Dermalogica products the mask does not contain any artificial fragrances, colors or parabens which makes it safe for all skin types. It retails for $60.00 and is available at Dermalogica spas, salons and skincare centers as well as online by clicking HERE.

Valentine’s Day Makeup

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! I know that this celebration of passion and roses ignites mixed reactions. Some enjoy the explosion of pink, heart shaped everything and overpriced teddy bears while others feel the pressure of being single and not quite ready to mingle. However you decide to celebrate don’t forget that love comes in many forms. Whether you find yourself staring googly eyed at your partner over a flickering flame, at a movie with the girls or at home with the family remember that you don’t have to be in a romantic relationship to enjoy love.

Instead of chocolate that goes straight to the hips or flowers that wilt I prefer a delicious dinner and more practical tokens of affection like books, jewelry, or tickets to a show and I always welcome clothing or beauty products! This year we are keeping it simple: dinner, a movie, dessert and then some quality time together which is really what it's all about.

In terms of makeup I like to keep it simple and fresh. A classic look works wonders for most people and compliments any outfit. I prefer to use a soft shadow on the lids, my favorite is a trendy gold with a warmer color in the crease like bronze or brown and deepened at the corners by blending in some black.

For my face I use the Beauty Blender with my foundation for a flawless finish and I go light on the blush for a natural flush. I also aim for a radiant glow with extra highlight which creates a luminous effect.

Charlotte Tilbury Swish & Pop Blush - Ecstasy

A winged liner in jet black always adds a sultry element and makes the eyes appear larger. I don't line the bottom lash line because I like to keep my look soft. 

A bold red lipstick completes the look for a seductive pout. In this case I used Burberry's Union Red.

Here are some more pretty shades that are perfect for the occasion!

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Enjoy the weekend.

Elizabeth Arden Always Red Eau de Toilette Review: The Scent of Love

When we think of Valentine’s Day, images of roses, hearts, romance and a lot pink and red often come to mind. I won’t be excluding all those pretty feminine hues in this post, in fact you’ll be getting a heavy dose today along with details on a modern fragrance from Elizabeth Arden that is sure to turn heads!

Scent is thought to affect attraction and mood and when you think about it, it makes total sense. Lavender and certain botanicals have aroma therapy benefits to calm and relax and we seem to love freshness, florals musk and sweetness. Sometimes human pheromones are also quite pleasant and whether we realize it or not, many of us are highly attracted to our partner’s natural essence. Admittedly I love the smell of aftershave and cologne on men; I find it sexy, appealing and attractive! The alluring scent of a fabulous, feminine perfume may also have the same effect on guys, which is probably why the right fragrance adds the perfect finishing touch to a trendy date night outfit.

Whether you are looking for a thoughtful gift for a loved one or an intoxicating treat for yourself Elizabeth Arden’s Always Red Eau de Toilette will create a delicious new love affair! The seductive red and black ombre bottle evokes timeless sophistication and daring style with undertones of mystery, passion and lust.

A good indicator of a scintillating perfume is sheer obsession. When I wear this fragrance I bask in the indulgent sent all day and as it lightly fades and meshes with my body chemistry it smells even better! I can’t seem to get enough of this decadent blend and my husband finds it quite captivating as well.

Always Red has the perfect balance of elegance and youthful flare! The top notes include:  juicy red plum, zesty mandarin and sweet passion fruit with middle notes of: fresh jasmine, rose petals and pink freesia. The bottom notes are: mahogany woods, praline and red amber to give it irresistible depth and complexity. The tempting aroma celebrates the New York State of Mind - making your own rules, being the leader of the crowd and confidently embracing your femininity. The scent is perfect for date night, lunch with the girls, parities, work and everything in-between!  

A knock-out fragrance pairs beautifully with classic red lipstick and the shade (Red Door Red 02) takes bold, sassy color to a new level! This velvety formula contains shea butter, and vitamins to nourish, protect, plump, soothe and moisturize. The rich, creamy pigment glides on effortlessly to drench lips in light, satiny color with subtle luminous sheen. Simply put this formula is one of the best and one swatch is all it takes to fall head-over-heels.

Always Red retails for $82.00 (per 100 ml) and the lipstick is $32.00. You can find Elizabeth Arden at Hudson’s Bay, London Drugs, Murale and Shoppers Drug Mart.

Sephora Deluxe Charcoal Antibacterial Brush Set Review

This year Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday which means no work! I plan to make the most of the weekend with a romantic candlelit dinner, a great movie and dessert at our favorite local cafe. Aside from a sexy date night outfit my makeup needs to be flawless so the right brushes are essential!

The Charcoal Brush Set by Sephora may be one of the brand’s finest travel-friendly collections! These brushes are trendy and beautifully made with smokey grey handles and light grey bristles that are expertly cut. The brushes come with a sleek faux leather case with magnetic closer that is both fashionable and functional! Perfect for use on-the go and weekend getaways.

These swoon-worthy brushes offer much more than a pretty design, the bristles are infused with charcoal powder which has antibacterial properties to keep them fresh. Charcoal is also known to draw out impurities and detoxify skin to help prevent blemishes which is why it is commonly infused in face masks.

The set includes:

*Large foundation brush - that also doubles as a face mask applicator.

*Angled Liner Brush - for eyeliner application or filling in the brows.

*Precision Brush – for contouring and highlighting.

*Angled Concealer Brush – camouflages and highlights under the eyes. Also doubles as an eye shadow brush.

*All Over Shadow Brush – for eye makeup.

*Angled Face Brush- for blush, setting powder or contour.

This collection is cruelty and paraben free making it safe for sensitive skin. The bristles are well made, ultra plush, and feel luxuriously smooth against the skin. I like that they are soft and fluffy without being floppy to maintain a level of sturdiness that makes application easy and precise.

The brushes also have the right amount of dense bristles which allows makeup to adhere well to the fibers and transfer to the face effortlessly for a seamless finish.

The eye shadow brush is quite large but it covers the entire lid area and you can always use the concealer brush if you have smaller lids.

If you still use flat foundation brushes the one in this set is the best I’ve tried! The common variety is usually stiff, small and often times cheaply made but this one is large enough for efficient liquid application and the flexibility allows for a more even finish. I usually use a dual-fiber brush, Beauty Blender or buffing brush for foundation but this one is perfect for my BB and CC cream application to create an even base.

Since I already have many liner brushes and they don’t seem to differ very much between brands I would have preferred a fluffy crease brush instead but overall this is a fantastic set! Whether you need new tools to get ready for date night or you are looking for a great Valentines gift this collection will not disappoint! Sephora also carries adorable, sassy makeup bags like the one featured in this post that reads “I may not be perfect but my makeup is.” The brushes retail for $78.00 and the makeup bag is $33.00.

With all those fancy new brushes you may need a cleanser to go with it. The Sephora Mini Solid Brush Cleaner removes stubborn makeup, dirt and germs and is formulated with argan oil to soften bristles without harming your brushes. The mini retails for $10.00.

Now that I’ve showed you some great tools and accessories I’d like to introduce you to my shimmery new shadows that are perfect for creating sultry eyes. If aren't sure what look to create for the occasion why not go soft and glittery with the Sephora single shadow in the shade Girl Talk N˚232. This soft, feminine pink is embedded with knock-out, light reflecting particles to make eyes pop!

If you want a bit less glitter than the shimmer shadows provide an alluring metallic finish and I love the bronze/gold shade called - Fashion Blogger N˚295. In the photos the colors are a bit difficult to distinguish under my studio lights so please refer to the swatches below. The shadows retail for $16.00 each and you can find all these amazing products at Sephora locations and Sephora.ca.