Ruffles and Poof

Cheap Thrills

2011-08-02T18:34:00.000-07:00

I've never really been an "accessories" type of gal.

But I've always loved statement necklaces. Bold, glittery, uncomfortable, loud, chunky, fantastic.

And I must say Fovever 21 has seriously been stepping up their game in the jewelry department. I frankly don't care that these will turn my neck green someday.

INGLOTS, seriously.

2011-08-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

8 eyeshadows for $35. Can you say amazing?

On a Shampoo Rampage

2011-08-02T18:13:00.001-07:00

Shampoos to Review...

Joico K Pak

Matrix Biolage Smootherapie

Matrix Biolage Hydrotherapie

Suave Naturals Almond & Shea Butter

You need this: MAC Studio Finish Concealer

2010-04-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

This is really one of the best concealers for the price. But then again, that is what MAC is known for: really great quality for a reasonable price.

MAC's Studio Finish Concealer SPF 35 is a great concealer for scarring and acne. It has a thick and creamy consistency that provides complete coverage. It's easy to blend and does not come off cakey.

Don't let the size fool you
It comes in the same packaging as MAC eyeshadow pots providing you with 7 grams/0.24 oz of product. The small size however makes it very convenient to travel with and the pigmentation makes it last many months of application.

The best part about this concealer is the range of colors it comes in. [I wear NC35] From light to dark and cool to warm, there are many shades to cater to your own individual skin tone. I have oily skin and I'd say it lasts about 4 hours on me and longer if I set with powder or layer on foundation.

Available at MAC for $16.50

MUFE Full Coverage Concealer is another concealer I really recommend but for $30 and a smaller color range, it's definitely more of a splurge. Overall, MAC SFC is one of my basic MAC must haves that I will keep repurchasing time and time again.

NARS for my birthday

2010-04-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

Best birthday [makeup] present everrr!

NARS Nail Polish in Purple Rain

I don't really like wearing cool toned or dark polishes. I prefer corals and pinks BUT
1. it's NARS
2. It's very pretty
3. I didn't pay, it was a present!

The color is very metallic and rich with small red shimmer. It's almost opaque in 1 coat. 2 coats it's perfect. It has a very workable thick consistency that makes application very smooth.

Available at Sephora or NARS.com for $16

NARS Cream Blush in Cactus Flower

I really love cream blushes. I am quite in love with NARS blushes. Put the two together and you get NARS blush in Cactus Flower. I would describe the color as a cross between raspberry red and coral red with gold shimmer. The shimmer is subtle on the skin but like all cream blushes gives a very natural dewy flush. Even though I have oily skin I'd say it lasts at least 4 hours on me.

Available at Sephora or NARS.com for $26

Earthquakes are Awkward

2010-04-04T16:48:00.001-07:00

I always feel more awkward than I do terrified after an earthquake shakes up my town.

It could be because I have yet to experience a really horrible chairs-fall-on-ground-tvs-crash-onto floor type of earthquake *knocks on wood. I am not very sure how I would handle myself in that situation. Very poorly, I'd assume.

I remember when I had my temp job over the summer, there was a mild earthquake and the next day during the highly anticipated 'smoke break' everyone was talking about it. I had told my co worker that I immediately ran to my door way and stood there holding on making sure the door didn't slap me in the face. I went on about how I didn't even think twice before I leapt to the safety of the door and how in school, I felt like an expert being able to quickly get under my desk [b/c I'm so small] and manage to cover my spine and face while getting into a comfortable yet effective vital organ and precious face preserving position.

She then proceeded to tell me how that method is a complete sham and you're honest best bet is to run outside away from trees and powerlines.

So it got me thinking. If there was a terrible earthquake [or any circumstance that would require me to run the fack! outta my house] what that fack! would I bring with me?

I've always wanted to pack my own emergency duffle for you know..like emergencies, but I've never got around to it NOR would I have any clue where to place it in my already overcrowded room.

Obviously, I'd run out with the important if you live in America kinda stuff:
Wallet
SS Card
Passport
Car Keys
Health Insurance Card [If not already in your wallet]
Your piggie bank

But being the highly emotional but seemingly rational person I am, after stuffing all the above in my closest expensive handbag I'd also try and manage to stuff my pockets, bra, mouth, armpits or possible wrap in a blanket....[and so on] all this beloved crap

Narsoholic by rufflesandpoof on Polyvore.com

NARS

This shit is my expensive habit. All the other stuff: MAC, Stila, Drugstore, Clinique could crack on the floor, get burned to hell, or flood the fack! up for I care. NARS is like my make-up drug. No addict is leaving their home without their stash.

bags bags bags by rufflesandpoof featuring Chanel bags

ALL my facking! $300+ HANDBAGS!!!!

I would literally take each one, stacked around my shoulders and neck and run outta the house like a mad fool. Albeit, I didn't pay $300 for any of them [good deals hollah]. There's true value in my babies. True value.

journal by rufflesandpoof on Polyvore.com

But on a more serious note..

Lastly, the other thing I couldn't possibly leave without are all my journals and notebooks. I'm a nerd. But I love writing. About anything. I'm the kind of person who carries a small notebook everywhere containing odds and ends of the most insightful or most random things you'll ever read. If everything else I bring is my pride and vanity then I obviously can't forget my soul either.

Janelle's 21st Bday

2010-03-08T18:40:00.000-08:00

Theme: The Viray Social Club circa 1930s Stockton

With the birthday girl [sexy thang in red flapper uniform]

in the birthday girl's HUGE ASS vanity mirror

Me, trying to look cool in front of the HUGE ASS window [that I could jump out of]

Again, trying to be gangsta gangsta with my friend Tri

FOTD:
MAC Studio Sculpt concealer in NC35
Laura Mericer Oil Free Foundation in Golden Beige
MAC Blanc Type
MAC Texture
MAC #42 Lashes
Avon Ultra Color Rick Lipstick in Red 2000
NARS Crazed

Boobs are fantastic, even the plastic

2010-02-12T11:47:00.000-08:00

So this morning I logged into my YouTube subscription page and watched pretty much the most important video I'll ever watch in my life...a video about boobs.

If you are a YT makeup/shopping vid junkie like me then you may have once stumbled upon Lorraine TheCurrentCustom on YT and instantly have thought "Damn, nice boobs."

In lieu of Valentine's day she's made a video about the best bras, how to highlight boobs, and most importantly how to correctly size up your boobs.

Now, I don't know how many times I've read the little diagrams and blurbs about how to find your bra size but I do know one thing. No matter how many times or which places I read it [from the Limited Too Dressing room to Cosmopolitan Mag] I never quite understood it. Thankfully, in this vid she does not only take you step by step but straight shows you on herself step by step, her 32D boobies and all.

Behold the magic

Now on a personal note. I've always had a love-hate relationship with my boobs. [But really dislike because frankly, who hates boobs?] I love that I have something even though it makes me wonder if the alphabet really does begin with A. Mostly, I dislike that they don't really bounce, or push up, or fill into the cleavage zone of my clothes, or cause traffic accidents...[ok ok, maybe just pedestrian collisions]

And while I know that bigger boobs carry with it saggyness, hurtful bouncifullness, and back pain, could a 36B really hurt me ? :P I am a dreamer but I am realistic. 5 feet and 100 so lbs do not a set of juicy Cs make, ya feel?

So here's to boobs, they are fantastic, even the plastic. Rock on!

*scuttles to find measuring tape for fun

MAC Spring Colour Forecast Preview Event w/ Brents

2010-02-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

So Tuesday, me and Brents headed over to Del Amo to join in on all the fun at the MAC store for the preview of their newest Spring Colour Forecast Collection. To learn more about it, click here.

It's basically four mini collections in the theme colors of Pink, Coral, Plum and Amber. Coral and Plum def stood out to us the most so we both picked out one little goody to take home 'for the memories' haha. There were cocktails [unfortunately you had to show I.D.], canapes, and a bunch of models serving and looking pretty.

This is us waiting in line for get rung up for our purchases and post having the MAs put test out all the make up on Brents.

Woot! I can't wait until I get invited to another one of these!

I am a PRODUCT Pt. 1 Face

2010-01-21T20:29:00.000-08:00

Instead of going crazy making absolutely comprehensive individual posts on many individual things that amount to the insanity that is my beauty product use, I've decided to kind of run them all together. Somewhat like a beauty slurrrry of reviews of things I've purchased and tried out.

AnyHOO, here's a rundown I've things I've been liking, loving, hating and the sort.

Face & Body L-R

MAC Volcanic Ash Exfoliator

Pros:
fine exfoliating grains

Cons:
grains dissolve almost instantly in water making exfoliation in the shower frankly impossible
smells different, like a volcano I suppose. somewhere between interesting and unpleasant.
can't tell if its working because your rinse will be full of black water regardless

Grade: :[[ -

I had high expectations about this. I read some really great reviews but when it actually came to trying it out, it didn't exfoliate. For the first 3 seconds after I applied it in the shower I was quite pleased with the consistency. The fine grains made me feel like I would be getting a more thorough but still gentle exfoliation. However, 2 seconds later, when the silica and ash dissolved on my wet skin, I was left confused and somewhat bumpy. I'll be now using it to exfoliate my face.

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

Cons:
smells of very strong alcohol
may sting skin
you must shake it before every use
best to use a cotton swab for application

Pros:
diminishes the size of cystic acne after 1-2 days
a little bit goes a very long way

Grade: :]

For the price, the amount you use, and the output it delivers this is great product. I soak the end of a cotton swab with the shaken solution, dab it onto my cystic [nasty] acne, and in a couple days all that remains is a small red dot [not lump] on my face. Hooray!

Korres Body Butter in Guava

Cons:
Price

Pro:
Lovely fruity [not really guava] scent
very lightweight texture, non greasy
moisturizing

Grade: :]

Most body butters feel thick, go on thick, and make your skin feel moisturized but in a very thick [slightly icky] way. With Korres, instead of thick, you get slick. The body butter feels light like a lotion and amazingly absorbs with almost a matte feel to it. How much you use is based entirely on how dry you are but because of its light consistency it is able to spread across your skin and moisturize evenly, most likely decreasing the amount you'll need to use.

Pro Activ Refining Mask

Cons:
Pro Activ stuff is expensive
smells like sulfur
Depending on how large the pimple it will affect how often you need to apply it

Pros:
Dries up whitehead acne
Kaolin allows the mask to form a 'protective' crust so it doesn't easily rub off when you wear it overnight
a little goes a long way

Grade: :]

I always get this when I order the 3 step trial pack from Pro Activ. It's the best thing I've come across so far to dry up pimples. One small tube will last you years so it's a nice bonus and it's small so it's convenient to bring for travel.

Clinique SPF 50 Facial Sunscreen

Cons:
Price

Pros:
High SPF
only "slightly" greasy in texture
easy to blend into the skin

Grade: :]

Compared to drugstore sunscreen it's defintely more expensive. Compared to other 'higher end' type sunscreens it's definitely on the less expensive side. In a perfect world, sunblock would feel like lotion but since that's not the world I live in, expect some slight greasiness. [blot your face a few minutes afterwards] Slight french fry grease face aside, it's the nicest feeling sunblock I've used on my face so far and the high SPF is a nice bonus.

It's a New Year

2010-01-04T14:16:00.000-08:00

2010

How wierd is it to write 1/4/10? Wierd as hell. Doesn't seem right.

But anyway, I am not much of a 'new year's resolution' person. Mostly because I never feel all 'new' at the start of the new year. Just another day after a day after another day, right?

To me, it's like having a birthday.

Someone: "So how does it feel to be [insert old fucking age here]??"

Me: "The same [looks at person as if they were asking trick question]."

You feel me?

But for the hell of it, I think I should really get on this making new resolutions wagon. I wanna put on a petticoat, tie on my little cream bonnet tight and leap on that bandwagon...

Because frankly, as stupid as I thought they were [blame teenage angst for thinking everything was stupid?] they are actually not that bad. Goals are great. As a visual person I like to have or do something visual and tangible to accomplish or understand or do anything. I draw pictures, make collages, write lists, dog ear pages and so on. Thus, I've decided if I really want to get anything done I need to see it. Whether on this blog or on hastily scribbled posters scotch-taped to my walls, what the hell I wanna do with this 2010 year.

*Not in any particular order

1. Eat fruit at least once a day
2. Do something with my hair daily
3. Save some damn money
4. Exercise for at least 20 mins daily
5. Drive somewhere really far
6. Dress special everyday
7. Start on school assignments early
8. Meet tons of new people
9. Be successful at some sort of side business
10. Do what makes me happy

I end this entry by saying here's to the new year. Now get off your ASS.

It's Raining

2009-12-12T17:07:00.000-08:00

I don't know what it is. But I love to hear the rain outside. There's a certain comfort in its sound. The way you hear it splash onto pavements, trickle off rooftops and slosh around off tires.

It fills a void. I am not normally someone afraid or uncomfortable with silence but I love the way the rain takes up the empty space. And when it stops [as it has been intermittedly today] I feel a little sad. Left alone with the silence, so quiet.

OOTD times TWO

2009-11-29T15:41:00.000-08:00

Number 1

F21 Coat
F21 Scowl Neck sweater dress
Black waist cinching belt
Coach Sabrina satchel in yellow

Number 2

F21 Coat
H&M Turtleneck long sleeve sweater shirt
Express Dark denim
Charlotte Russe Tan ankle boots [BLACK FRIDAY!!! 25% off]

I LURRVE Polyvore

2009-11-23T14:42:00.000-08:00

Isn't it neat?

I forgot how much I love putting together outfits *squeals

Perfect Work Outfit by rufflesandpoof featuring Miu Miu shoes

Items in this set:
Arden B top, $38
Lanvin jacket, 1.975 EUR
Great Plains pants, 45 GBP
Miu Miu shoes, $750
Coach bag, $898

Do you fancy a clutch or wristlet?

2009-11-23T14:26:00.000-08:00

Due to the insanity that is the holiday shopping season, my work has requested we bring a small purse/wristlet to work to save time for bag checks.

I have narrowed my choices to these... *SIDE NOTE: No I actually don't already own a small clutch or handbag BC I prefer to carry my life around with me everywhere I go...

1. All Coach because I work at well..yeah
2. I don't know why the last 3 are all gold, it just happens I like them best in the gold color *shrugs
3. It's honestly a matter of
a. Pay $150 ish and be able to put more things and carry it on my shoulder
OR b. pay $50 ish . [PERIOD]

What say you?

A Trip to the Godiva shop and Marukai

2009-11-19T20:30:00.001-08:00

Did you know Godiva has a free rewards program? Check it out here !

You can get
-a free piece of chocolate once a month
-free gift each month you spend $10 +
-free shipping on one online order
-and exclusive online deals every 16th of the month

So I joined and got my free truffle and some more..

The original dark chocolate truffle & seasonal peppermint truffle

Strawberry dipped in milk chocolate *yummm

I haven't been to Marukai in AGES, so since I didn't know how to find the freeway back from Manhattan Beach I decided to just detour on the side streets to Marukai. I found some neat nail art tools and stationary items and yummy seaweed flavored potato chips.

What a good day!!

EXCEPT

Sadly, I logged onto NY Mags Fashion Blog and learned of up and coming Korean model Daul Kim's suicide in Paris last night. She was one of my favorite models. If you check her out on NY Mag under Model Diaries you'll see why she's so likeable. She would say the absoultely darndest things and her quirkiness will be missed.

Here's to Daul.

U by Ungaro lipstick EQUALS nude lippie love

2009-11-18T22:00:00.000-08:00

Avon is coming out with a U by Ungaro makeup collection staring Campaign 26 to go with their U by Ungaro women's fragrance. The collection includes 3 eyeshadows, 2 face powders, and 3 lipsticks.

I bought the lipstick in Champagne to try out and let me just say it's FANTASTIC.

Thankfully these babies have no association with the mess that is the House of Ungaro post Lilo.

The lipstick is evenly pigmented, creamy, and moisturizing (!) The quality honestly surpasses even my MAC cremesheens.

The shade Champagne is a creamy nude with a slight sheen and pink undertones.

It comes in two other shades, Ungaro Pink which looks like bright cool fuschia pink and Glam which looks like a lovely berry.

They retail for $10 and can be found on Avon.com or any Avon representative [like myself]

Grade :]++

*BONUS: A small GWP
a pink metallic and silver key fob !!

Want your bad romance

2009-11-18T21:55:00.001-08:00

Lady Gaga Bad Romance music vid inspired

Unfortunately my white gloved gaga hand gun kept getting cropped out of the shots *BOO. But look at my mean ass eyelashes :P

Avon True Color Quads

2009-11-16T22:18:00.000-08:00

L-R: Textured Teals, Sandy Corals, Island Breeze, Earth Tones

Avon True Color Eyeshadow Quads

Island Breeze Quad

Pros:

Comes in a great combination of shades
Good pigmentation [for the most part]
$8 each but go on sale frequently
Quads combine shimmer, matte and metallic type eyeshadows

Sandy Corals Quad

Cons:

Powdery formula
Average wear time
Some colors in the quad perform better than others

Earth Tones Quad

Grade: :/

Textured Teals Quad

I prefer creamier type consistencies when it comes to eyeshadows but the quads offer a real nice variation of color and effect which is nice for travel or just to simply build a look from one convenient quad.

The Incredible Edible... cookie

2009-11-16T22:05:00.000-08:00

As you can see the chocolate to cookie ratio is essentially 10 to 1. It's like a chewy chocolate bar *drools.

I want some more.

I think I will dream about these tonight...

Nine: the internet is incredibly distracting

2009-11-16T21:32:00.000-08:00

Instead of writing my field trip report for my geology class I am listening to and watching clips of the numbers in the movie musical Nine.

Be Italian, the song in the trailer is sung by FERGIE. UH-MAZINGLY well done. This will officially be the new song I sing in front of the mirror when I am feelin' theatrical :P

2 Great Things About Having a Job

2009-10-23T22:13:00.000-07:00

1. Paycheck$$$

2. Meeting friendly co-workers :]

In return for taking her shift so she could go trick or treat with her son she gave me a baggie of samples!! [BTW, she also shadows as a make up artist at the Shiseido counter]

How did she know I am such a little make up sample ho?

Total list of the GOODS

Clinique Dramatically Different Lotion

Shiseido Pureness Balancing Softener Lotion

Shiseido Pureness Deep Cleansing Foam

Clinique Different Lipstick in Spiced Apple

Shiseido Perfect Mascara

Shiseido Shimmering Lipstick Rouge in SL13 [Reminds of MAC Viva Glam V]

Orgins Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream

Clinique October GWP Palette

True Religion Eau de Parfum

Shiseido Perfect Rouge in BE208

Harajuku Lovers Eau de Toilette

Lipstick Swatches

Palette Swatches

Neat-o, eh?

Fake Orgasm

2009-10-21T22:14:00.000-07:00

I love NARS.Ever since I saw on the Sephora website that they had a blush named 'Orgasm' I knew that me and NARS would play very well together.

But lo and behold, I am a broke@ss trick with no dough for feed the makeup ho within.

Then one day, Lollipop26 on YT [classiest mu guru EVER] mentions how she loves Milani's Mineral blush in Luminous referring to it as the NARS Orgasm dupe. Naturally I hopped into my car and speeded to the my CVS to get my hands on one. But alas, I was met with failure until a very random trip to Target with a friend led to the wondrous discovery.

I literally hid it in the other blushes and drove back to get it after my friend and I parted ways.

Excited, I hopped into my car, peeled open that thick difficult plastic wrapping and stick my needy little finger in to swatch it. BUT, I didn't see anything.

"where's the blush color?"

Eventually I found a way to use it but frankly smooshing my brush into the pan several times to get good color payoff and then having way too much gold frost on

my cheeks never quite tickled my fancy. Off to the back of the make up drawer it went.

Then a few weeks ago I got the legit business that is NARS Orgasm [Laguna duo :P, better deal right?] And tell you the truth, it rocks my socks just the way I thought.

"yeah baby!"

But on the real, they actually come out quite different from each other from the get go.

Orgasm on the right is a dark peach pink with subtle gold shimmer and dust sparkling through it while Luminous [on the left] is a lighter peach with light gold frost all throughout. Like they say about eyebrows, these blushes are more like sisters than twins, maybe even cousins...

In conclusion I would rather have a cheek orgasm than luminous cheeks any given day. But to give Milani some credit, I think it would work out better if you have a lighter skin tone and want the frosty highighted cheeks. As for me, I'd prefer more pigment, less frost any given day [2nd time = emphasis]

Yep, I'm a little blush crazy... *sigh

The Avon Lipstick Army

2009-10-21T21:53:00.000-07:00

L-R: Poppy Love, Red 2000, Sheer Peach, Sheer Naturale

Avon Ultra Color Rich Lipsticks are quite good. They come in a range of satins, metallics, shimmers, and sheers. In my collection I have 2 satins and 2 sheers.

L-R: Sheer Naturale, Sheer Peach, Red 2000, Poppy Love

They all have a creamy consistency and mild scent. My sheers smell like slightly like vanilla while my satins smell slightly fruity. Best of all, they apply smoothly and evenly. So essentially they are solid legit lipsticks. Woot!

In the swatches above the sheers were swiped 2-3 times while the satins swiped once.

At full price they are 6.50 a pop but you can normally find them on sales BOGO 50% or something like that.

Grade: :]

One day

2009-10-20T21:47:00.000-07:00

I would love to take sickASS pictures in black and white...

Can you believe this is Cameron Diaz?

Best opening EVER

2009-10-20T20:38:00.000-07:00

This is why I love magazines...on the internet

2009-10-20T20:03:00.001-07:00

Because they can show you wierdass pictures and links to some more strange things

Case in point

A sweater with penises by Agent Provocateur

But wait, there's more!

who buys this ****?

You're my playground love

2009-10-15T00:03:00.000-07:00

...Gael Garcia Bernal

An Ode to Gucci Eau de Parfum II

2009-10-12T21:12:00.000-07:00

You know when you have those days that you just can't seem to lift your spirits out of the funk?

Today I had that horrible feeling. I stayed in bed until 11:30 and practically zombied my way through the day, eating, watching hulu and doing the laundry.

Finally, at 3:45 it was time to head out the door for school. Normally driving does not make me feel better or at ease. Normally it makes me feel the opposite [I was heading into 405 rush hour traffic] But strangely I felt somewhat at peace. I took a deep breath and the cloudiness that 'funky days' veil you with had been lifted. I took a deep breath and smelled the Gucci Eau de Parfum on my skin. And I felt lovely.

Isn't funny how little things like beautiful familiar scents can have the power to turn your day around?

Where did all the money go?

2009-10-11T17:42:00.001-07:00

After having 2 conversations with Brently and my sister I have come to the startling conclusion [AGAIN] that I am absolute crap at saving money.

This summer I worked 40 damn hour weeks in which I made around or over $300 a week for about 2 1/2 months. [OH GAWD, I can't believe I worked at a call center for that long....]

So basically that equals LOTS OF CA$HMONEY, right?

NOPE.

I am pretty damn sure I spent about every single little dime, nickel, penny of that hell. Because who am I, but a walking talking personification of retail therapy. *sigh

So this last week I was --this close to saving money BUT then there was the preceeding post.. and I am sure you know how that goes.

So I ask this, How the %$#* do I save my money?

Please help the helpless and leave a suggestion below :]

Shopping SUCESS

2009-10-08T23:36:00.000-07:00

4 Things that make today so damn great

1) Got a call that work shortened my shift
2) Got a call that I could just take the night off
3) H&M grand opening [and my special GWP]
4) Found 2 things at TJMaxx I was in actual NEED of

Moisturizer and sunglasses case CHECK
F21 Boots for $25 BONUS
H&M Blouse for $5 BONUS
H&M mini zip pouch EXTRA BONUS

*sigh, Great day indeed :]

OOTD

2009-09-25T09:03:00.001-07:00

Tshirt dress-F21

And yes, for some reason there is a mirror by my stair case...

OOTD

2009-09-20T19:57:00.000-07:00

Little House on the Prairie much?

But to me <3

OOTD

2009-09-16T20:33:00.001-07:00

black top with bow- Target
cream sweater- Express
brown dressy shorts- OC Designs
black slippers with gold chains- Montego Bay/Payless
sunnies- Michael Kors/TJMaxx

side note* please ignore that it looks like I have no feet X/

Happy Birthday Party

2009-09-16T20:21:00.001-07:00

Here is my lovely new necklace and my Essie 'Really Red' nail polish in action.

Hi Monica!

Unfortunately I am not wearing my heels [it was in the backyard *cough* sinking heels into grass] and I am covering my dress [it was 12:something, COLD]

My younger sister Sam wearing my oxford heels.

Hi Vincent! Washed out much??

The beautiful debutante!!

And yes, the background is her BACKYARD. Such a lovely backyard it is, with or without the elegant decor.

Good food + great setting + wierd DJ/EMCEE + small but entertaining program + crazy dancing little cousins = GREAT TIME

Happy Birthday Katrina!!

My Lips like Buttah!

2009-09-12T16:35:00.001-07:00

Korres lip butters rock my world.

L-R
Lip Butters in Pomegranate, Quince, and Jasmine

Packed with Shea butter and rice wax, they keep lips moist and seal hydration to keep your lips smooth and kissable all day.

What's also neat about them is they have subtle tints to them.
L-R

Lip Butters in Pomegranate, Quince, and Jasmine [Yep, it's light nude pink]

I've been wearing Jasmine constantly for about a week and it's love. I like using them best just after exfoliating my lips in the morning. I don't find that it moisturizes as well when your lips are already chapped and peeling. What they excel at is locking in moisture. I go through chapstick very easily. Maybe 6+ tubes a year. But with these I find myself only reapplying a few times a day.

Pros:
Seals in moisture
Lightly tinted
Smells AMAZINGG
Tastes good

However, from time to time there's a slight aftertaste [if you can call it that] that I can feel when applying it to my lips. I don't know what it is but it's something that my Sally Hansen Naturals Lipstick has too. Other than that, these babies will be staples in my bag for years to come

Available at Sephora or Korres.com $9 for 0.21 oz

Grade :]

Alright, I have a problem..

2009-09-12T16:15:00.000-07:00

Project: Save your $$$ has been a f a i l .This is what going to the mall for work or to drop off my sister does to a me. Oh TJMaxx, why must you always carry things that make me happy.

L-R

Korres Mini Body Butters
Handbag hanger
Michael Kors belt
Tommy Hilfiger Sweater [this was for work, so I don't think it counts right?]
Essie Nailpolishes in
--Guchi Muchi Puchi [pale pastel pink]
--Really Red [Again, for work X]
--Carousel Coral
Nailtek Foundation II and bonus Nailtek II

So in the middle of walking from my parking spot to Coach to Chick Fil-A and to TJMaxx, I also stopped by my fav little store Irene's Story. I LOVE the accessories from there.

Faux pearl necklace with fancy little painted brass flowers and crystals <3

On another note, I am so happy with these purchases. I LOVE Carousel Coral. It goes PERFECT with my skin tone and is the kind of color that just makes me happy when I look at it.

Tonight I am going to try out the handbag hanger. I remember seeing one of my mom's friends use it at the buffet. And I also remember thinking it was the most genius thing I've ever seen. don't you hate it when you are out somewhere eating and you don't know where to place your bag? Place it on the floor, risk getting food on it. Place it on the back of your seat, sit uncomfortably for the next hour or two as you get your eat on :/ Either way, not very good options. Hopefully this little gadget holds up to the 'heftiness' of my bag. Haha.

Reviews to come!

A few new friends..

2009-09-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

Here's a few things I ordered recently

Mario Badescu Skin care

In response to some nasty 'broken out-edness' I decided to order some products from a line I've heard wonderful things about. I decided to buy the Buffering Lotion and Drying Cream thanks to TheCurrentCustom's vid on her skin care routine. I get a mix of all types of acne [cystic, whiteheads, blackheads, and just plain bumpiness X] so I thought this was worth a shot and actually isn't too pricey either. [Pro Activ I am looking at you]

Another thing that Lorraine mentioned was that the website is real generous on samples. So per Temptalia's recommendations on this line I sampled the Cucumber Cleansing Lotion and Acne Facial Cleanser. Another thing Lorraine praised was the Glycolic Cleanser so I got a sample of that too.

Korres

In promoting their US website, Korres has been offering 30% and deluxe sample offers. Unfortunately I placed an order before the deluxe sample offers started rolling out *cries* but their normal set of samples is still pretty nice.

I really wanted to pick up some of their mango and guava lipsticks BUT after swatching them at Sephora I decided to pass.

So I picked up their lip buter trio which came in Jasmine, Quince [what is this?] and Pom.

OT: Have you tried those POM teas? They are in the salad aisle of Alberstons and they are TASTY. Go antioxidants!!

I tried the Jasmine one and so far so good. My lips are too dark so the nude tint doesn't show but it seriously keeps my lips quite moist and supple feeling. Smells and tastes good too! Btw, I choose the Guava body butter sample, Yoghurt cream, and wild rose cream.

And now I am on Project: SAVE YOUR MONEY s@fk#a&*d!! yehhh...

I'm pooped.

2009-09-02T21:54:00.001-07:00

It's the first week of classes and I don't want to be at school. Lots of driving [not really], lots of power walking, lots of "bored/OMG what time is it/what's going on" kind of thoughts, and lots of confusion [statistics by powerpoint?]...

Bleck. AND no fun classes this year, just straight up BUSINESS. Literally [Business Major].

Another point, I have to come to realize I'll be pretty busy this year. In addition to school I have a job, Avon and possibly an internship

Geez louise, I already feel pooped just thinking of all the things I will try to accomplish this semester.

Main Goals:
1. Get As and Bs
2. SAVE my money from working
3. Find a fun hobby

OOTD

2009-08-29T19:09:00.000-07:00

Very Casual for a hot day of not really doing anything at all...

Striped Shirt-F21
White high waisted denim shorts [folded down]- Against All Odds
Yellow bag- Charlotte Russe

Philosophy: Cleanliness Made Simple

2009-08-29T17:10:00.000-07:00

Another cleanser I have tried and am impressed with is Philosophy's Purity Made Simple. Again this is more of an oil based cleanser but with more of a cream/oil hybrid texture and look.

This is the bow down HG for a lot of people. But not for me.

Claims
pH balanced formula
Infused with sage, chamomile and carrot
Dissolves dirt and makeup while cleansing deep into pores

First off, it feels better than a cleansing oil. Cleansing oil feels like...oil.

So when I cleanse my face I feel like a greaseball which is something I've gotten used to but when you first start, it kinda turns you off. Purity however feels as emolient as a cleansing oil but also very creamy and rich.

For removing foundation, blush, and eyeshadow it's great. It's gentle and gets the job done. BUT for gel eyeliner or mascara I feel like you have to work harder. I need to keep rubbing gently but for a longer couple of minutes. And if I don't rub well enough, I find I get leftover eyeliner or mascara.

Second, it smells good and is moisturizing. It doesn't make my face feel dry or tight AND it has this lemony cake smell like my Nivea Kiss of Moisture chapstick. [which i <3]

Philosphy Purity Made Simple $10 for 3 oz

Grade :]

Cleansing with Oil?

2009-08-29T16:39:00.000-07:00

YES!

Cleansing Oil is the best. I decided to try this one out after seeing ChefCaffy on YT purchase it for her trip. I've always hated how difficult it can be to take off ALL my eye makeup easily and completely. I <3 my Lancome Bi-facil BUT it's $28 for 4.2 oz while this is $15 for 5.2 oz AND it removes all my face makeup as well.

No matter how much make up I am wearing this takes everything ALL* off. [*EDIT* sans remaining make up on my water line which I'll use cotton and Bi-facil for b/c I am too squeamish to touch my waterline with my oily finger] I just pump it once or twice into my hands, rub them together, and then rub the oil all over my face and eyes gently. Foundation, blush, eyeshadow, gel eye liner, and EVEN MASCARA dissolve in seconds. Then i just wet my hands and let the oil turn into milk as I rinse all the oil and makeup off. Then, VOILA!

Clean face.

Biore Perfect Cleansing Oil $15

Grade- :]+

I found this goodie at Mitsuwa Japanese Marketplace. There's 2 more from their beauty ailse I want to try out: the Fancl Mild Cleanising Oil and the Softymo Cleansing Oil. More reviews to come!

Anew Clinical

2009-08-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

These a couple items from their "Clinical line." Essentially all the items are supposed to mimic the effect of actual cosmetic procedures without of course getting cut up and poked with needles [violent imagery intended].

Here we have Thermafirm. This replaced my Clinique Zero Gravity Repair wear Lift only because... I ran out. I use this as a neck cream. Again, prevention, prevention prevention.

Double/triple chin? No thanks!

Claims:
To support damaged tissue with new collagen
Uses triple sonic technology [combination of ultrasonic stressed yeast, natural extracts and hydrolyzed plant protiens] to tighten the connection between skin's layers

For me, I have found this a VERY moisturizing neck cream. I exfoliate reguarly especially on my neck and chest. One day I went a little overboard and damaged the skin on my neck. It became super dry and scaley *yikes.* Not even my Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion worked, which is the most moisturizing face lotion I've used so far. But after using this cream for a couple nights all the dryness went away, leaving my skin supple and moist like before.

Also, it has a very nice subtle perfume scent unlike my Clinique lotions/creams. Although fragrance free is better for senstive skin and noses, sometimes I think they just stink. Chemical, plastic-y bleh scents aren't too friendly to the nose either!

Anew Thermafirm Face Lifting Cream $32

Grade :] +

And this here is the Anew Clinical Eye Lift which was brough to my attention because it is an Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner and CEW Insider's Choice Beauty Winner.

Claims:
Lifts Brown Bone, Upper and Lower eye area
Uses Dimensional Lift Technology to tighten and lift upper eye and brow area
Uses Derma Refine Technology to lift under eye sagging
Reduces dark circles and creepiness X] (which means small lines on the under eye area)

Unfortunately, this product worked too well. I didn't notice any tightening with the upper eye gel. It just felt soothing and watery [in a good way]. After using the under eye cream my under eyes felt TIGHT!! I remember sitting on my bed going on the laptop thinking 'wow I can actually feel this stuff working'

Then when I proceeded to do my eye make up I noticed these brown dried patches on skin where I had previously applied the eye cream. To this day I have no clue what exactly happened but I am now very wary of tightening eye creams.

Grade- :[

Anew Rejuvenate

2009-08-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

As an Avon rep, I've made it a point to try things out so when people come to me for recommendations I can made honest suggestions and offer better insight on the usage and benefits of certain items.

So far, I've been trying a lot of their skin care. Although this line is aimed for 30 somethings, I decided to give it try. The products from this line basically claim to refine pores, reduce fine lines, and smooth skin. None of which I particularly have a problem w/ but prevention is KEY :] right?

I've added the Night cream and Day serum to my routine. They both have a thick creamy consistency but a gel emoliency after you blend it into your skin. A little bit goes a long way. After using them for maybe a month now, I've noticed my skin definitely looks a lot brighter.

Because of my acne prone skin, I have a lot of scarring and redness. This has helped bring that glowy-ness back into my skin. They are both very hydrating and absorb quickly into the skin.

They go on sale pretty often. I got both of these for $38 but separately

Night Revitalizing Cream 1.7 fl oz $32
Flash Facial Revitalizing Concentrate 1 fl oz $48

Grade- :]

I <3 Bargain Shopping

2009-08-24T13:05:00.001-07:00

A couple things I picked up from TJ Maxx

Essie NP Set for $8

Michael Kors Sunnies for $20

Hooray for bright colored nail polish.

Mini Review: Essie NP

-Easy smooth application
-Thick and even coverage [even for a np amateur like me]
-Very shiny
-Matching pigmentation in 1 coat!!

I must say I am VERY happy with this purchase. I ordered a few np online but after testing them out I feel a bit 'eh' about some colors. These however def bring my spirits up.

Now, if only I could wear bright manis to work...

OOTD

2009-08-18T11:13:00.000-07:00

This is what I wore to church last Sunday.

*Note to self: must improve if wanna do artsy looking ootd photos or else cry in embarassment for not being cool enough

-F21 Black sweater dress w/ cowl neck
-F21 tan woven belt
-Worthington black leather oxford heels

"They used to call me anal girl"

2009-08-18T11:00:00.001-07:00

I don't know why I don't watch more movies like this. How did JGL do GI Joe AND this?

I love JGL's reaction in this scene and the way Zooey Deschanel gives the line is beyond perfect.

Gucci by Gucci

2009-08-15T15:17:00.001-07:00

I don't know why. But there is just something about beautiful smelling perfume in beautiful bottles that makes me feel so damn.. beautiful?

Don't you agree?

OOTD

2009-08-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

This was my outfit to church today. Very summer. I am quite proud of myself for putting together something so light, casual and fresh. I normally opt for some very structured and black and white. I don't think the picture really gives it the justice it deserves, I have yet to get the lighting right.How cool is that lace back?

Stila Covertible Colors

2009-08-06T21:05:00.001-07:00

I love cream blush.

I love bright colored blush.

I love Stila Convertible Colors.

L-R Petunia, Fuschia, Gerbera

The main idea is that these darlings are multipurpose solutions for beauty on the go. They come in a very cute handy compact with a mirror and can be used for your cheeks and lips.

I currently own 3 and LURVE them all. They are pigmented, easy to blend, come in very flattering colors and have a pretty good lasting power [est. 4 hours]

L-R Gerbera, Fuschia, Petunia

The first swatches show Stila's CC pigmentation. They look rich and glossy.

The second set of swatches has them blended out. I went a little over boart w/ Gerbera which is why it's so much dark than either colors. Oddly enough it's a really good example of how
how much you blend them out and pack them on affects the color pay off on your skin.

Gerbera is a light peach with pink undertones. It's really great paired with blue and green eye looks because of the neutral warmth it brings to your face.

Fuschia is a BRIGHT pink with puple undertones. I like to wear it w/ neutral eye looks because it really draws attention to my cheeks. It delivers that healthy glowy 'pick me up' to my face.

Petunia [Currently my FAV] is a bright juicy vibrant pink with red undertones. It's one of those colors that make you feel a little bit perky and energetic. Up close, the swatch is almost a pink red orange. On the cheeks it has enough of the warmth to look natural but still that strong pink to make your cheeks pop with perkiness.

Cream blush is always my go to product to brighten up my face. The right blush not only lifts up the face but brightens and opens up the eyes as well. Next on my lemming list, Stila CC in Lilium..

Why I like Forever 21..

2009-08-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

I remember the very first thing I bought from Fovever 21. It was this blue sleeveless top with a plaid like design in some polyester blend material that I bought to wear for my 7th grade birthday at the movies [Time stoppers, or stop watchers or something of the sort]

And while I frankly will not be pulling it out of the closet anytime soon w/o something much cuter layered on top, I must say that I have found some very chic things in the sales rack of F21.

And yes, F21 is cheap, but seriously, I guess that means I am as cheap as they get, because 85% of what I buy from there is on the sales rack..

In my trip yesterday some notable things I found were a yellow laced back cardigan

and a powder blue little house on the prairie-esque dress [For the record, I would like to note my obsession w/ Laura Ingalls novels in the 4th grade]

They combine subtle details and interesting twists on conventional design. And to boot, they were about $15 each which is essentially a steal compared to the other things in the store for that price.

Seeing things like these really get me excited about fashion again. They renew my dreams on being a boutique owner and designer. Simplicity and subtlety are highly overlooked and under appreciated adjectives in the fashion industry. One of these days I would like to bring that sense of simple and beautiful back.

Until then, I'll still be perusing the clothes rack to find little treasures like these.

Let's a raise toast

2009-08-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

to the end of seasonal employment. here here!

My stint at the call center is now over. And to celebrate I will be lazying it up on the beach to slowly kill the time before school starts up.

These beauties are from Victoria's Secret's [never ending] swim wear sale. "Never ending" because to be honest I placed about 3 orders... [so expect more swim wear toasts to come]

BUT ANYWAY

I presentRetro Floral

and Sailboats :]

HOoray!

A light head can be a good thing

2009-07-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

I think this is the first time I got a hair cut and I instantly felt like 'wow, my head feels a lot lighter.' Funny thing, because this is NOT the shortest I've ever cut my hair.
Look at it? It's so flat. It's hard to believe my hair is able to look normal. Now for the dreaded after hair cut and styling shower....

Because frankly I am too lazy to blow dry, paddle brush, and flat iron the bejeebas out of my hair as seen in the picture, as done by my hairdresser *sigh*

I look pretty happy in this picture too. Happy hair = Happy Face XP

MAKEOVER

2009-07-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

So last weekend Brently and me went to Sephora in Lakewood JCP to get a free makeover from Cargo's promo event. I didn't have a camera so no pics of the before/ after and in between. But I think the highlight was having the MA tell me I was the funnest of the day.

On the EYES:

Cargo Tahiti Palette
Urban Decay Big Fatty Mascara in purple

This was taken when I got home before heading to Mikko's party.

Woot!

OhR GaH NI ZZAA SHuN

2009-07-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Look what I found at 98 cents Marukai!!

Nope, it wasn't 98 cents. But neither are a lot of things there.

It's really "$1.69 Marukai & various items $20+" But I guess that's too long to fit on a sign.

I will now be able to put on my makeup without constantly ruffling through bags and picking up what I knock over on my dresser. Now all I need a brush holder contraption..

Some other interesting things I purchased:

1. The Mascara Guard
I have yet to see if this works, but for under $2 I must admit it's a funny little thing to have

2. Eyelashes!!!

I think I will come back to purchase these again. Wouldn't they look hot w/ some teeny tiny rhinestones on the ends?

Why HELLO kitty

2009-07-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

This is why I like to walk around the Mistuwa grocery section

So what kind of pasta sauce is good enough for hello kitty pasta..??

Meet James, Sam's new boyfriend...uhh lipgloss

2009-07-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

As you can tell, they are quite happy together :P

ADVISORY NSFW: LITTLE NAKED MAN ON LIPGLOSS

Thanks to the creative minds at Urban Decay we can now all carry lipgloss that
(1) smells like creme brule,
(2) comes in shimmery duochromatic glossy colors,
(4) has a creamy and lasting consistency
(3) AND most importantly has a cute little naked man to stare at before and after gloss application. GENIUS <3 style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_x3nN7Z9j810/SljF3VGtd3I/AAAAAAAAADA/Cnf3qxyE-Ag/s320/photo+012.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357249311105972082" border="0">

Long Beach Aquarium

2009-07-11T09:08:00.000-07:00

Can you believe how big that fish is? Whenever I think about fish, I think about eating them. When I see this fish I suddenly feel VERY full. Full like after a chinese fusion buffet..a.k.a full like you're about to get heartburn X]

Touching marine life is fun.
EXCEPT when you are trying to take a cute picture and then a whole bunch of rays and fishes swim right through your hand..

Hooray for fish adventures! and Brently's doctor for giving us 2 free tickets :]

Rimmel Sexy Curves..so sexy afterall?

2009-07-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

The Toots
-Khol Black
-up to 70% curlier lashes
-16 hour hold
-for "volumptuous volume" [ahah]

The Grade: B

It's alright..

I dislike plastic bristles because I find myself constantly poking myself in the eye. Moreso I feel like the design is unnecessary. Although it's not some big fatty mess [MAC Plushlash anyone?] that's practically the size of my small eyes it doesn't quite get into the lashes as well as I thought it would. Something more tapered and thin like Clinique's Lash Doubling Mascara wand seems to be better for those 'lash challenged' individuals like myself.

At the core, it's a rich black mascara that does holds some curl adding some volume and length but ultimately not the 'volumptuous-ness' I was expecting. L'oreal Voluminous is still the best drugstore volume mascara even though it can make me look like a worn down hooker w/ raccoon eyes by the end of the day [NOT good]

Fav Mascara wand design still goes to my Lancome Courbe Virtuouse, which I *actually wash and reuse.

SUMO love for MAC

2009-07-03T13:05:00.000-07:00

It's things like this that keep me in that cubicle M-F from 8:30 to 5...

MAC Family and Friends Sale a.k.a 25% off [Hot DAMN]

Brushes <3
168-Angled blush brush
188-Duo fibre brush
219-Pencil brush

Eyeshadows <3
Crystal Avalanche
Twinks
Texture
Humid
Trax
Silvering
Shale
Copperplate

So who wants me to do their makeup? Any takers?

OMGSH FRIDAY HOLIDAY

2009-07-03T11:40:00.000-07:00

So I've officially come to the conclusion [but really I've felt this for a while] that working full time KILLS.

And not the way that Louboutins would KILL but I mean my spirits have been repeated KILLED. [overdramatic much eh?]

And today is an observed holiday and I feel FANfuckingTASTIC <3

List of things to do/done
1. Stay up late [kinda] on a Thursday CHECK
2. Watch Public Enemies for only $8 w/ the guys CHECK
3. Deliver my Avon stuffs b/c I am my own little business woman CHECK
4. Sleep in CHECK
5. Eat some sushi [b/c frankly taking leftovers from dinner to work everyday is getting quite old]
6. Go to the bank to deposit the CA$HMONEY
7. Go shopping <3
8. Long Beach Aquarium for 'Friday Late Night'
9. Play w/ some fireworks
10. Have some FUN FUN FUN

OOTD..err yesterday

2009-05-17T18:29:00.000-07:00

This is what I wore to a 25th wedding anniversary at The Reef in Long Beach.

Excuse the ridiculously messy room. Maybe you can think of the outfit as beauty in a disaster?

ruffly goodness- $20+
black floral skirt- $16
looking like spring time w/o 'looking like a garden'- priceless