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Hello, all! Today we are doing a really brief overview and swatch party of a new NARS release. The product in question is the NARSISSIST Unfiltered Cheek Palette. I got my hands on the Unfiltered II palette during the Sephora sale.

There are two NARSISSIST Unfiltered Cheek palettes currently available at Sephora (and, I noticed, at Sephora inside J.C. Penny). Unfiltered I has some beautiful warm shades that seem to be geared more towards deeper skin tones (thought anyone can rock them, really!) Unfiltered II has cooler-toned shades that include:

Conquest (pastel peach matte)
Undefeated (pale pink shimmer)
Power Play (vivid pink matte)
Hot Sand (peach champagne sheen)
Fame (pink amber sheen)
Candid (mauve raspberry shimmer)

Each pan contains .12 oz of product, compared to the .16 oz in the standards NARS blush pan. It is also important to note that these are of the traditional NARS formula, not the dual intensity, which I also love. All but one of the shades (Hot Sand) are limited edition, as is the palette as a whole.

SWATCHES

The NARSISSIST Unfiltered Cheek Palette is very sturdy and luxurious-feeling, which is a nice change of pace as far as LE items go. Here are the swatches!

As you can see, these one-finger-swipe swatches are pigmented and beautiful. There is a nice variety in color that would lend itself to being used year-round.

So what do you think? Do you need to pick this up? Or, do you have swatches of Unfiltered I that you want to share? Tell us below!

Or, check out some other NARS favorites:

Dual Intensity Blush Palette
Pool Shark Eyeshadow

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Sephora VIB/VIB Rouge Sale

So, class, here’s the scoop. Sephora’s annual holiday sale is going on from 11/4-11/7 for VIBRouge in-store and online with the code 20ROUGE. VIBs get early access from 11/11-11/14 (code- 20VIB). Both VIB Rouge and VIB receive 20% off their purchases during this time. I believe I also read that VIB Rouges who shop in-store on 11/4 receive a holiday tote bag.

Now, let’s talk about what you need to buy. My feelings are that because 20% off is the best you’re ever really going to do at Sephora, now is the time to purchase those staples that you keep returning for, and a couple of higher-priced goodies that you’ve been waiting to purchase. Let me therefore share with you some of my recommendations for “high-end” goodies. I’ve even done the math for you to tell you how much you’re saving, based on prices in the U.S. Because I’m nice like that.

Finally, before we go on, please note that many of the links are affiliate links, which means if you click through, I get like $0.01. Or, if you click through and buy something, maybe I get a dollar. But, if that makes you uncomfortable, by all means just go to the Sephora page and type in the product name! Also, I stole all these photos from the Sephora site. Hope that’s cool, everyone.

Eye THINGS

Natasha Denona Palette 28 or Palette 5 (online only)- So here’s the thing. The 28 pan Natasha Denona palette is crazy expensive. Therefore, if you’re ever going to purchase one of these palettes (there are two – green/brown, and purple/blue) now is the time to do it. Originally $239 you will save $47.80 and pay $191.20. If this is still to pricey, and it very well should be, but you want to try out the amazing formula, go ahead and get one of the 5 pan palettes. I personally have #10 and it is amazing. Normally this is $48 but you will save $9.60 and pay $38.40.

Laura Mercier Eye Art Artist’s Palette – This recommendation comes from Rachel, another teacher who wears makeup. This is a perfect neutral palette with a variety of creamy, wearable colors. Normally $55, you will save $11 and pay $44.

Benefit Roller Lash Mascara – Another recommendation from the other teacher Rachel, Roller Lash is one of her favorite mascaras. I, too, enjoy using it. This mascara is usually $24, but with $4.80 off you will pay $19.20.

Face Things

Laura Mercier Candleglow Soft Luminous Foundation – If you haven’t tried this yet, what are you waiting for? Reviewed here. Normally $48 you will save $9.60 and pay $38.40.

CoverFX Custom Enhancer Drops – I have Celestial and it is AMAZING. If you are darker complected, you may also enjoy some of the other shades. Or get them all! This is normally $42 and you will save $8.40 and spend $33.60.

Bobbi Brown Highlighting Powder in Pink Glow – This is the most amazing yet subtle highlighter I own. If you’re in the market for a new highlight, get this! Usually $46 you will save $9.20 and pay $36.80.

NARS Narsissist Dual-Intensity Cheek Palette – Featuring four amazing dual-intensity shades, this palette is everything you need in a blush/bronzer/highlight compact. This one is limited edition, and I swatched it here. Normally $59, save $11.80 pay $47.20.

Bite Beauty Multistick – There are so many amazing shades, but I am partial to Nectar, a beautiful purple. This is for those days when you’re feeling monochromatic. Slap it on your eyes, cheeks and even your lips. Swatched here. Normally goes for $24 you can save $4.80 and pay $19.20.

Beauty Blender Blotterazzi – You will never need blotting papers ever again. You’re welcome. Usually $20, save $4 and pay $16.

Lipstick

Honestly, if you want to just stop at one lipstick display and find every shade and finish to suit your needs, just go to the Urban Decay Vice Lipstick area. I’m partial to Big Bang, Studded, Carnal, Wildfire and Backtalk. But there are so many wonderful colors you’re going to be shopping for a long time. Normal price $17, save $3.40, spend $13.60.

Skincare

Sunday Riley Martian Mattifying Melting Water-Gel Toner – This is an amazing toner if you’re prone to oily skin, large pores, or blemishes. It feels incredibly refreshing and seems to do its job. But it’s normally $55 so now’s the time to save $11 and get it for $44.

Dr. Jart+ PORE MEDIC Derma @ home peeling – I don’t know if I’ve ever seen this discussed on social media but it is absolutely one of my favorite skin treatments. It is a two step peel that diminishes pores and brightens the complexion. I can’t recommend it enough! Normally $42, save $8.40 during the sale and spend $33.60.

Hair

Bumble and bumble Prêt-à-Powder – Part dry shampoo, part styling powder, this is one of my favorite hair products of all time. The white powder disappears into the hair and adds a grit that reduces oiliness and adds grip for more voluminous hair styles. Get it reduced from $27 by $5.40 to $21.60.

Well, there you go! Those are my recommendations! But I’d love to hear yours (and I know you have many). Share them with the class in the comments!

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Hello, all! Today I bring you some photos of the NARS Dual-Intensity Blush Palette. This is a limited edition item available on NARS’ website. This palette features four dual intensity blushes, meaning they can be used wet or dry.

I was really interested in this palette because I adore the two dual intensity duos that I have. It is a formula that needs to be applied with a light hand and/or very fluffy blush.

The NARS Dual-Intensity Blush Palette features four shades:
– Soft Tulle – a linen white
– Damask with Gold Sheen – a golden copper
– Peony – a muted raspberry
– Titian – a midtone bronze

I find all four shades to apply and blend out easily. A huge benefit of this palette is that in case be used for contouring, highlighting, bronzing and blush.

My only qualm with this palette is that I expected the pan sizes to be the same as those in the duos. They are not. At .32 oz total, each pan is .025 oz less than the pans in the duos.

Overall, this is a great palette if you are in need of a variety of blush shades. I would love you hear your thoughts if you’ve tried it!

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I’m not usually into blue eye shadow. I tend to look like a 3 year old playing with mommy’s makeup. However, when I saw “Pool Shark” from NARS’ Summer 2016 collection in the store, I almost died. Its periwinkle hue called to me. It said “buy me.” But I didn’t. Not then, anyway.

Cut to about 2 months later, and I have something to show you! Pool Shark is the most perfect blue eyeshadow. It is NARS’ dual intensity formula which means you can use it wet or dry. Additionally, because it has a hint of purple, it is a very versatile blue.

As you can see, NARS Pool Shark is quite pigmented and has a metallic sheen.

I tried out Pool Shark on a particularly humid and gross night and it performed beautifully. First, I applied it with a damp brush to my lid (over primer). Then, I blended out the edges into the crease with a fluffy dry brush. I also brought a bit of color down along the lower lash line.

With this method, the shadow lasted all night without creasing.

I absolutely adore Pool Shark as a “one shadow look” eye shadow. As you can see, the blue is not overwhelming:

pre-lipstick. don’t judge

Since NARS Pool Shark is a summer 2016 collection item, I would recommend getting your hands on it soon!

How do you feel about blue eye shadows? Tell me!

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I mean, it snowed on Monday, but that’s fine…
Let’s talk about some of my favorite spring blush options for the [ever-so-slightly] warmer weather!

For the springtime I really enjoy a pink or coral hue for the cheeks. One of the sheerer options I like is the MAC Mineralize Blush in Petal Power. This coral pink blush has a subtle shimmer that eliminates the need for any extra highlight.

The other spring blush from MAC I’d like to recommend is from their recent Flamingo Park collection. The shades is called Let’s Be Friends and is part of their normal powder blush line. If you like a good blue-toned hot pink cheek, get on this before it’s gone!

Speaking of hot pink, the left side of the NARS Dual-Intensity Blush in Panic is the most perfect bright pink. It can also be combined with the orange shade on the right for a more coral hue. Or the orange can be worn alone (though, I prefer this in summer). So many options.

Finally, an old favorite is Hourglass’ Ambient Lighting Blush in Luminous Flush. The rose pink is swirled with a champagne highlight, creating a beautiful color and luminosity on the cheekbones.

swatches

indoor light

top to bottom: MAC Let’s Be Friends, Hourglass Luminous Flush, NARS Panic (right), NARS Panic (left), MAC Petal Power

indirect sunlight

Of course, there are many other options out there for spring blush. I hope you will share some of your favorites in the comments! And if you are looking for some lipstick recommendations for the spring, click here!

Blushes I want to try:

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Hello, class! Forgive me for being a bit delayed on the monthly favorites! But I do have some good ones for you today for our February Favorites – so here ya go!

Lunatick Cosmetic Labs Contour Palette 
I expressed my deep appreciation for this palette a few weeks ago. It is a fantistically versatile, quality product. I especially love the range of blushes and cool-toned contour shades.

MAC Beauty Powder in the shade “Pearl Blossom” (from the Flamingo Park Collection)
This beauty powder offers the prettiest light pink sheen that I love to use on light makeup days.

NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint
This is my new go-to foundation.  It is incredibly easy to apply and offers amazing lasting powder. I reviewed it here, if you’d like to see.

IT Cosmetics Brow Power Super Skinny in the shade “Gray”
OK, so maybe it sounds silly that I would use a gray pencil, but truthfully, it isn’t gray so much as very cool blonde. I love the ease of use this skinny liner provides. I’m actually on my second pencil because I ran out!

Too Faced Melted Chocolate Liquefied Long Wear Lipstick in the shade “Metallic Frozen Hot Chocolate”
Well… that was quite a name, eh? I took a chance on this after really strongly disliking a Melted Metallic shade a while back. Frozen Hot Chocolate does actually smell like chocolate, making it my favorite lipstick to apply. This does not dry down matte, but it can last through a cup of coffee if you drink carefully!

As always, I would love to see your monthly favorites. Please leave your link below in the comments section!

Shop the favorites:

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In dealing with the aftermath of Holiday eating, I’m sure I cannot be the only one with one or two blemishes to cover! I wanted to share with you my method for covering up a pimple (or two or three…)

First, here are my recommended products. As always, substitute in your favorites where you see fit!

Brushes: It Cosmetics Blurring Concealer Brush #103 and It Cosmetics Powder Wand #108.

Makeup: Becca Backlight Priming Filter, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer (Chantilly), Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder Foundation (2 Fair) and Laura Geller Balance-n-Brighten Foundation (Porcelain).

I bet you woke up today thinking you really wanted to see a close up of someone else’s pimple, right? Sure you did.

I start by priming with the Becca Backlight Priming Filter for it’s blurring effect. Then, I apply a thin layer of the Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder Foundation. I chose this foundation because it is medium coverage without looking heavy, a plus for when one is going to add a concealer.

Then, I dot on the NARS concealer to the affected area(s).

I use the IT Cosmetics #103 brush to lightly blend the concealer outward.

Then, I use that same brush to tap on the Laura Geller powder over the concealed areas.

Finally, I use the It Cosmetics #108 brush to lightly apply that same powder over my entire face, to better blend the concealed patches with the rest of the skin. Don’t forget to set with your favorite setting spray to avoid cakiness! And a reminder – you can cover the redness of a pimple, but not the bump! We’re not wizards here!

Wishing you the best day ever!

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Let’s start off 2016 by taking a look at some of my favorite beauty products from 2015! For the sake of brevity, I’ll try to keep my descriptions short and sweet. Feel free to let me know in the comments if you’d like more information! Where possible, I have included links to the product from websites I have used in the past. I have also linked to previous reviews, if I have one.

• Favorite Primer: Marc Jacobs Invisible Under(Cover) Perfecting Coconut Face Primer – This is my favorite all-purpose primer. Having used it in both warm and cool weather, I can safely say that it is great for dry skin, yet does not over-grease oily skin. I especially love it under the serum foundations that are becoming popular.
• Favorite Concealer: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer (I use Chantilly)- This concealer is amazing over blemishes; a tiny dot can cover the biggest zit. I’ve also used it under the eye, and I have to say that it creases less than some products marketed as dedicated undereye correctors.
• Favorite Foundation: MAC Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation (I’m shade NC20) – OK, so this one is a big deal because my skin does not normally get along with MAC foundations. However, this product has been a game changer. I use it especially on days I know are going to be very long, as well as any time I have to be on stage, because I know it will last. We reviewed this foundation here.
• Favorite Eye Primer: Too Faced Shadow Insurance – I got this one because everyone raves about it. I now understand why. It is very easy to apply and does help shadow last on long days. I notice significantly less creasing when I use this versus other popular eye primers.
• Favorite Eye Liner: Kat Von D Tattoo Liner (shade Trooper) – The applicator on this is so interesting; lying somewhere between brush and felt tip, this product makes winging eyeliner a breeze.
• Favorite Mascara: L’Oreal Miss Manga Rock Voluminous Waterproof Mascara (side note – our only “drugstore” product today!) – I have issues with many high-end mascaras, so to find a drugstore mascara that I love is fantastic. I am on my third tube of this because I love the way it lengthens and volumizes dramatically, without being overly clumpy.
• Favorite Brow Product: It Cosmetics Build-A-Brow (shade Blonde) – I didn’t think anything could trump the popular ABH dipbrow, but this cream is by far more forgiving and easier to manipulate.

• Favorite Eye Shadow Palette: Kat Von D Shade+Light Eye Contour Palette – It’s amazing how much you can do with a neutral palette, especially when it’s a good one. The shadows are exceptionally pigmented and easy to work with.
• Favorite Single Eye Shadow: Charlotte Tilbury Nocturnal Cat Eyes to Hypnotise (shade The Huntress) – There’s really something special about this shadow. The golden brown pigmented has little flecks of glitter than enhance the eye without being overwhelming.
• Favorite Contour Product: Kevyn Aucoin The Sculpting Powder – A fantastic option for fair skin. We took a look at it here.
• Favorite Highlight Product: Becca Cosmetics Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed (shade Moonstone) – The ever-popular “Opal” was too dark for me, but this option from Becca works for me in both summer and winter. It provides a subtle sheen that is good for everyday use.
• Favorite Blush: Urban Decay Afterglow Powder Blush (shade Rapture) – These blushes are crazy pigmented. I love the plum tone of Rapture, especially for the fall and winter. It can be sheered out to become very natural and pretty.
• Favorite Face Powder: Besame Brightening Violet Powder – This translucent powder has a hint of violet that really brightens the fair complexion. I like to use it as a finishing powder. It also smells lovely, so that’s an added bonus.

• Favorite Lip Gloss: Dior Rouge Brillant (Hollywood) – I hated lip gloss until I found this. It is thick but not tacky and lasts quite a while for gloss. Also, the color is fantastic.
• Favorite Cream-Finish Lipstick: Bite Beauty Luminous Creme Lipstick (Cava) – This is my all-time favorite nude because it is cool-toned and pigmented. The cream finish has decent staying power and the formula is moisturizing.
• Favorite Liquid-to-Matte Lipstick: Lime Crime Velvetine (Bleached) and ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip (Trap) – Similar formulas and colors, I had to have a tie happen. Bleached is a peachy nude and Trap is a gray-toned nude, but both are fantastic and can be altered by using a liner beneath them.
• Favorite Matte Lipstick: ColourPop Lippie Stix (Pinch) and Bite Beauty Matte Creme Lipstick (Barberry) – ColourPop Lippie Stix are some of my favorites, and Pinch takes the cake as the best slightly-darker-than-nude shade. I believe Bite Beauty Barberry was a limited release, but I suggest pouncing on any matte lipsticks that Bite comes out with.

For fun, I’ve included swatches of the above-mentioned lip products:

top to bottom: Bite Barberry, Bite Cava, ColourPop Pinch, ColourPop Trap, Lime Crime Bleached — left: Dior Hollywood

My favorite part of starting the new year is seeing everyone else’s favorites from the previous 12 months. Please, share your lists in the comments so we can all see!

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For your eyes:

ColourPop makes some of my favorite shimmery (and low-cost) products. For NYE, I gravitate towards Cricket and Hammered for their multidimensional sparkle.

I’m also loving MAC’s Pearlglide Instense Eye Liner in Petrol Blue. This deep navy pencil has just a hint of glitter and can easily be blended out for a smokey NYE look.

Also check out Lime Crime’s liquid liners for a glittery surprise. I’m showing Rhyme here, but Reason, a silver, is equally impressive and still available.

For your face:

ColourPop kills it, again, in this department. For a super glow, I recommend their highlighter in Spoon.

Nars’ dual intensity blushes also offer some great NYE options. I particularly recommend their Steven Klein collaboration in the shade(s) Vengeful. The left-side highlighter is fantastic on the cheek bones.

top to bottom: MAC Petrol, Lime Crime Rhyme, Nars Vengeful highlight shade, ColourPop Spoon, ColourPop Hammered, ColourPop Cricket

As always, please share your related posts in the comments so we can all see! And check back soon for my 2015 beauty favorites list!

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