merry christmas to all and to all a good night.

Merry Christmas! Despite my desire to slow down time and make December last a little longer...Christmas Day has arrived. Don't get me wrong: I love Christmas Day. It is such a special time for family, friends, traditions, food, and of course, hope. It is a day of peace and joy. Of love and kindness. It all just ends so quickly. Perhaps that is why I love the days and weeks leading up to the main event even more than the grand finale. I love all of the movies and the snow falling outside. I love checking for Christmas cards in the mail. I love turning on the radio and hearing Mariah Carey. At any rate, Christmas Day is here again. However you are celebrating - and whoever you are celebrating with - may your day be blessed and meaningful. 

On another note, this post is a reminder that my annual mini blog break has arrived. I have always taken the week between Christmas and New Year's Day off as a way to rest and recharge after all of the festivities. I will be back in the new year with even more beauty-related content. In the meantime, have a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic week. I look forward to hearing all about celebrations! Now, for a Christmas quote that perfectly encompasses how I feel...

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the creation of beauty is art. How will you be celebrating?

peanuts x wet n wild eyeshadow palette (review + holiday #FOTD)

Christmas time is here, families drawing near. Oh, that we could always see, such spirit through the year. Some holiday specials are iconic for good reason. A Charlie Brown Christmas is certainly iconic, beloved, and a tradition for many families. Several months back, it was announced that there would be a Wet n Wild collaboration with the Peanuts brand just in time for Christmas. This announcement left me with mixed feelings. On one hand, it sounded amazing. On the other hand, we don't tend to see limited edition offerings from Wet n Wild where I live. It seemed unlikely that I would be able to own anything from the collection. However, since my mom and I visited Frankenmuth last month, we were able to visit a few US stores. Luckily, the Peanuts x Wet n Wild items were available there. Though I wanted absolutely everything, it was only the Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown! Eyeshadow Palette that came home with me. It was about $17 USD, which was pricey, especially considering the fact that Wet n Wild has always been so affordable. Apparently not anymore! Since Christmas Day is right around the corner...this seemed like the perfect time to talk about this seasonal makeup release and share a holiday themed #FOTD.

new to me holiday DVDs (2022 additions)

These days, everyone loves to stream holiday classics. I do, too. There are lots of fun seasonal offerings on a variety of streaming platforms. Watching them is so easy. All you do is hit play and voila! However, those movies don't always stick around. Case in point? Two favourites of mine, Christmas With the Kranks and Just Friends were removed from Netflix fairly recently. I was distraught. For me? It reinforced the importance of physical media. I have always been someone who purchases CDs, TV box sets, and DVDs. I like to own things that matter to me. As great as streaming can be, the catalogue is temporary and can disappear at any moment. That is why my Christmas movie collection (which you can take a peek at here) is so important to me. I find it comforting to know that the seasonal movies I love are always nearby. Saying that...my Christmas movie collection grows every now and again. I have a list of movies that I am on the hunt for and it is not unusual for me to browse discount bins searching for a hidden treasure. Want to take a peek at some new to me holiday DVDs for 2022? Keep reading to check out some of the seasonal movies that I have been able to add to my movie collection this year. 

2 looks 1 palette: jackie aina x abh eyeshadow palette

Everyone has a palette that got away. You know, that limited edition release that you decided not to purchase, only to hear about endlessly from other makeup lovers. For me...that palette was the Jackie Aina x Anastasia Beverly Hills Eyeshadow Palette. At the time that it was released, there was another palette that interested me more, so that was the one that was added to my collection. In the weeks and months that followed, the Jackie Aina x ABH palette was often mentioned as a must-have. The reasons? The intense pigmentation, the unique colour story, and the overall performance. I was intrigued, but it was too late, and I knew it had become the palette that got away. Until recently, that is. During a visit to Winners a few months back, the palette was sitting there in all its glory, protected in a clear plastic case. Without hesitation, that palette was taken to the checkout line. Finally! I could find out whether the high-end eyeshadow palette was worthy of the hype. Keep reading for a mini review and two different makeup looks created with the collaboration eyeshadow palette. 

rank and review: classic rankin/bass christmas specials

Rankin/Bass are an important part of the holiday season. In fact, their specials have become some of the most popular of all time. After all, it just wouldn't be Christmas without watching Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at least once! As someone who adores this time of year - and all of the seasonal specials that come along with it - there is nothing more thrilling than sitting down to do a Rankin/Bass themed rank and review. According to an article from Paste Magazine, there are nineteen Rankin/Bass Christmas specials. It is time to find out where those specials fall on my personal rank list. 

review: too faced yummy gummy limited edition makeup set

Limited edition holiday releases tend to be whimsical. The latest limited edition makeup set from Too Faced certainly meets that criteria and then some. This brand is known for adorable packaging and this time...it is all about gummy bears. In the past, there have been peach scented products, cinnamon bear themed items, and everything in between. That is what I love about Too Faced: the brand seems to remember that the makeup should be fun. There are lots and lots of brands out there that focus on classic colours and understated packaging. Too Faced adds some much needed colour and theming to the mix. Ready to find out how the Yummy Gummy Limited Edition Makeup Set performs? See what is included? Here are all the details.

recent holiday themed reads.

What is better than reading? Not much. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to make time for this beloved pastime. In an ideal world, it would be possible for me to finish all of the books on my shelf and still have time to reread lifelong favourites. The reality is drastically different. Most of the time, I find myself squeezing in a few minutes of reading before bed or at lunch. I miss days spent curled up with a good book. Who knows...maybe there will be more of that in the new year. For now, I will have to settle for stolen moments of escapism. Over the last little while, I have been focused on holiday themed books. Some are mysteries and others are more romantic in nature. Here are some recent reads and mini reviews. 

life lately: the friends experience and marie osmond concert

It used to be a common occurrence. Leaving the house and heading to head to a ticketed activity, that is. Concerts, performances, special events...I loved them all. Unfortunately, those events have become a lot less common over the years. This is in part due to the rising costs (it is unbelievable how much a concert ticket is now) and in part due to the pandemic. That being said, the month of December has seen me head to not one but two special events. Talk about unusual! 

technic nail varnish collection (seasonal nail polish review)

Christmas Day is often associated with gifts, but it seems that I have been spoiled ahead of time this year. When it comes to seasonally themed items, my mom firmly believes that these should be given beforehand so those items can be used during the holiday season. It makes sense! At any rate, that is how the Technic Nail Varnish Collection entered my life. It came in adorable holiday themed packaging and had six shimmery polishes. Ready to take a closer look and find out how these nail polishes performed? Keep reading for all the details and for a simple holiday themed nail look. 

i'm just a vintage soul this christmas.

Sometimes, there is beauty in looking back. I find myself drawn to all things retro and vintage these days...especially now that the holiday season is underway. Maybe I have rose coloured glasses for a time that I never experienced. Or perhaps there is comfort in knowing how it all turned out. Honestly, there is so much uncertainty these days that looking back has become a lovely form of escapism. Though decades of the past held their own troubles, fears, and uncertainties, the haze of nostalgia makes it all seem so warm and simple. I am holding onto that feeling! As a result, several retro inspired holiday items have made their way into my home lately. Take a peek at some of those decor pieces and enjoy a little old-school inspiration.

seasonal favourites for 2022 (movies, decorations, and music)

Christmas time is here...happiness and cheer. Can you tell that I am in the holiday mood these days? It is no secret that the month of December is my favourite. I cherish each and every day leading up to the main event. For me, the days and weeks before Christmas always feel extra special. There are traditions to enjoy and decorations to look at. There is music to listen to, movies to watch, treats to enjoy, and opportunities to see loved ones. Though this is without a doubt a busy and hectic season, there is so much happiness thrown into the mix as well. Speaking of happiness, there are some seasonal favourites that have been making me smile lately. Though there are holiday staples (like John Denver records, Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes, and Food Network holiday baking shows)...2022 has seen some new favourites added into the mix. 

revisited review: too faced christmas in the city set

The month of December often causes me to reflect on the past. Sometimes that means thinking back on traditions and seasonal memories. Other times, it means there is a renewed focus on makeup releases from the last year or so. The latter is certainly true today. I continue to make the most of the Too Faced Christmas In The City Holiday Makeup Set that was released around this time last year. My sister gifted me the set for Christmas and it has been a serious love ever since. Ready for a revisited review? Here are some updated thoughts, personal reflections, and even a makeup look for good measure. 

leave a little sparkle wherever you go.

December is here! Nothing could make me happier. It is no secret that I adore the holiday season. The lights, the food, the movies, the music, the decorations, the time spent with loved ones...everything. Yes, I love absolutely everything about this month. In order to welcome in December properly, it made sense to share a little bit of seasonal inspiration here on the creation of beauty is art. Check out some holiday inspired photos and quotes below. As for what you can expect here over the next several weeks? There will be some seasonal favourites, current obsessions, revisited holiday makeup reviews, seasonal nail looks, movie musts, as well as a handful of high-end and drugstore Christmas makeup looks. This is sure to be a month to remember, both online and offline. On that note, here is a little December inspiration to start the month off right.

#FOTD: soft pink makeup look (feat. holiday products)

Officially, winter doesn't start until December 21st, but in my mind, the season is already here. This might have to do with the fact that there are Christmas decorations everywhere you look. Or perhaps it has to do with the snow that has already fallen. Whatever the reason, my heart is full of seasonal joy. A lot of people love the summer months, but I tend to thrive during the fall and winter. Currently, my home is decorated and I am tackling my holiday to-do list. I have watched a ton of festive movies and have listened to hours upon hours of Christmas songs. There is so much to love about this time of year! Since I am fully immersed in all things winter, it only made sense to use a few holiday beauty products to create a recent #FOTD. 

current obsession: ariana grande cloud holiday gift set

Who can resist a holiday gift set? Not me. There is something so thrilling about seeing items you love perfectly packaged. Not too long ago, my husband was out and about and saw the Ariana Grande Cloud Holiday Gift Set on display. He snapped a photo and sent it to me. Honestly? It was love at first look. Lucky for me, he decided to treat me to the Ariana Grande gift set. Since then, all of the items inside have been put to good use. Ready to take a look inside the set? Find out what was so intriguing about the seasonal release? Here is everything you need to know about this celebrity perfume set.

visiting frankenmuth and bronner's christmas wonderland

It seems that travel continues to be a part of my life. Though my discomfort has not eased any...my loved ones are set on venturing out into the world. That means sometimes, I am taken along for the ride. Most recently, that resulted in a three-day bus tour of the Frankenmuth area. This was a trip that my mom and I had discussed in previous years...mainly because it was Christmas focused and we both adore the holiday season. Finally, we were able to visit the area. This included Bronner's Christmas Wonderland (dubbed the world's largest Christmas store) and a bit of local shopping. 

first impressions: revolution lift & define 5D lash extra dimension

Some people love a bold statement lip. Others are all about show stopping cheeks. For me? The eyes are everything. Though I love a beautiful lip colour and a gorgeous blush to pull a makeup look together...the eyes are always the main focus. I feel most creatively fulfilled when there are different eyeshadow shades and finishes involved. Then there is often lots of contrast with black liner and mascara. To this day, my favourite mascara remains The Super Sizer from Cover Girl, but every now and then, I have the opportunity to test out something different. (Friends and family members are well aware of my makeup obsession and often gift me makeup for birthdays and holidays.) For instance, the Revolution Lift & Define 5D Lash Extra Dimension Mascara. Curious about this lengthening drugstore mascara? Keep reading for all the claims and a first impressions review.

skin care week: glowoasis milkdew pH balancing milk toner

It is the last skin care week post here on the creation of beauty is art. Though makeup is always my preference (I love the colours, glitter, and drama)...it is important to focus on the skin underneath the makeup as well. So, since my friend gifted me a product from glowoasis, it only made sense to put it to good use. The Milkdew pH Balancing Moisture Milk Toner was intriguing to me right away. I really love the Kylie Skin Milk Toner and was open to trying something similar from another brand. Curious about this skin care product? Here is everything you need to know about the toner.

skin care week: dove mini reviews (cleanser and lotion)

Skin care week is well underway here on the creation of beauty is art. So far, there have been posts dedicated to a skin care set and even makeup removing wipes. Now, it is time to look at a couple of items from a tried and tested brand: Dove. This is a brand that has always kind of been around. I remember there being Dove products in my house growing up...and now there are some in my home as an adult. There are some items from the brand that I prefer over others, but this time, I wanted to test out a new body cleanser and a lotion. Keep reading to find out how these drugstore products performed. 

skin care week: burt's bees hydrating facial towelettes.

It is time for another skin care related post here on the creation of beauty is art. The last post was dedicated to a regimen set from Mission Luxereve, but today, it is all about Burt's Bees. Despite this brand receiving a lot of praise from beauty lovers, my experience with their products has been inconsistent at best. A lot of the items that I've tried have not been great. At all. However, I keep hoping that there will be something that wows. Since I was looking for some new face wipes (and these were on sale)...the Burt's Bees Hydrating Facial Towelettes with Watermelon came home with me. So, how did they perform? 

skin care week: mission luxereve regimen set

Welcome to another theme week here on the creation of beauty is art. This time? It is all about skin care. With fall well underway and winter on the horizon...it is more important than ever to focus on all things skin related. There have been a handful of additional skin care products in my routine lately. This includes serums, cleansers, and makeup remover wipes. And this week, all of those items will be reviewed as part of skin care week. Kicking things off is the Mission Luxereve Regimen Set. This was gifted to me by my mom a while back, but it wasn't something that I actually put to use until somewhat recently. Being completely honest, my skin care routine was, well, a routine over the summer. I focused on the basic steps and nothing more. Now that the temperatures are starting to drop, it is essential to refocus my efforts. Ready to start off skin care week? Here is everything you need to know about this skin care set from Mission Luxereve. 

my first time visiting the retro festive store.

Is it Christmas yet? Okay, maybe not, but my mind is already focused on all things festive. This is without a doubt, my favourite time of year. Admittedly, I am a bit of a Christmas addict. I watch holiday movies all year round, listen to instrumental Christmas music while I write, and find myself browsing the holiday subreddit in the middle of summer. There is something so special about all things seasonal. From the decorations to the movies, food, and traditions...I love it all. Perhaps this is why my favourite online store is Retro Festive. This is a Canadian run business that focuses on holiday, retro, and popular culture items. Not only does this store have all the things that I love most, but it is also located within Canada. Since things normally cost a fortune to ship here (and take forever to arrive) it is an absolute delight to have something nearby. Items usually arrive within a day or two and the prices are all in Canadian dollars. Hooray! Needless to say, I place several orders there each year. 

new in: kylie cosmetics makeup (eyeshadow palette and lip kit)

It is hard for me to resist Kylie Cosmetics products...especially when I see them in a store. This is still a novelty! For years, Kylie Cosmetics was only available online for Canadians. Even when the brand launched at Shoppers Drug Mart, it was online only. Slowly, but surely, items from the brand have been making their way into stores. A few lip kits here and a few lip kits there...and now there are full blown displays. During a recent stop off at Shoppers Drug Mart, my eyes locked onto one of those beautiful displays and it was gave over. Though I wanted absolutely everything, only two items came home with me: an eyeshadow palette and a new lip kit. Ready to take a peek at these new items? Keep reading for all of the details.

fab or fail? essence hello, good stuff (3-in-1 face mist)

Life can be hard, so sometimes, it is nice to have a skin care item that is easy. That is why I love sprays, mists, and all-in-one items. Lately, I have been using a face mist from Essence an awful lot. The Hello, Good Stuff! 3-in-1 Face Mist, to be exact. With a watermelon scent and 90% natural ingredients, there is a lot to like right off the bat...but how does this product actually perform? Keep reading to find out if this affordable skin care item from Essence is fab or a total fail. 

fall inspired #FOTD (featuring beauty bakerie sweet potato pie)

My obsession with the fall season continues. November is here and that means my mind is slowly starting to shift to what lies ahead...like snow, winter coats, and the holiday season. For now? It is all fall all the time. To be honest, I have been hesitant to take down the fall themed decor items in my home. They are so warm and welcoming! Similarly, I have been hesitant to move away from fall themed makeup looks. There are certain colours associated with this time of year and each one seems to fill my heart with joy. Well, several months back, Winners had the Sweet Potato Pie Bite Size Eyeshadow Palette from Beauty Bakerie on sale for a mere $5. Given the warm fall shade selection and low price point, it came home with me. It also inspired this #FOTD. Keep reading for a mini review of the Beauty Bakerie palette and a fall themed makeup look.

vacation highlights part two (disneyland)

Travel can feel stressful and overwhelming at times...but there are always lots of wonderful memories to look back on. Looking for a dose of magic and wonder? Disney is the perfect place for that. Though my absolute favourite place to be is Walt Disney World, my mom wanted to visit Disneyland after about five years away. So, my parents, my brother, my husband, and I all flew to California for our first international trip since the pandemic. It was a lot. There were way too many people and it was certainly an adjustment, but there were also some good moments. So, on that note, here are some vacation highlights.

vacation highlights part one (legoland california)

Travel is an important part of life. Whether you are headed to a different city or a different country altogether, there is something magical that happens when you leave behind routine and focus on making memories. In the past, travel was significant to me. I would spend months and months eagerly looking forward to some sort of vacation or special experience. Then the pandemic happened. Suddenly, travel felt unsafe. It felt like something to be avoided at all costs. Honestly, it has been really difficult to shift that mentality. The way I viewed travel previously and the way I view travel now are so drastically different. I often wonder if things will ever return to 'normal' for me. Despite all of this uncertainty and fear... despite the fact that the way I think about travel has shifted...I did do some traveling recently. Some of my family members went to California to visit Legoland and Disneyland. Over the next couple of days, I'll be sharing some vacation highlights.

new streaming musts for halloween night.

One more day until Halloween is officially here. If you are anything like me, there have been seasonal favourites playing in the background for weeks. I'm talking Halloweentown, Scream, Double Double Toil and Trouble, Friday 13th, and Casper. There are so many movies to watch and stream these days. (Check out a few suggestions here.) There is just something about these seasonal movies. Some are family friendly, some are thrilling, and others are downright terrifying...but they all add to the spirit of the season. Looking for something new to watch? Something to liven up your Halloween celebration? Well, you are in luck, because there are all sorts of brand new releases. Here are a few new streaming musts for Halloween night. 

autumn themed nail wraps (heypop review)

It's hard to believe, but autumn is in full swing, and Halloween is just a few days away. This is such a special time of year. There are chunky sweaters, trees changing colours, and a fun holiday that everyone can enjoy. Since the countdown to Halloween is officially on...it made sense to add a little seasonal splash to my nails. The HeyPop Super Cute Nail Wraps are not new to me. I've tried them in the past with varying results. Some designs worked well and lasted while others did not want to adhere to my nails completely. It is always a bit hit or miss when it comes to nail wraps. That being said, these autumn designs were too cute to ignore. I simply had to try them for myself. Find out how these performed and take a look at my latest nail look.

nightmare before christmas (charmed aroma review + reveal)

Tis the season to embrace all things spooky. Some say Nightmare Before Christmas is a Christmas movie. Some say it is a Halloween movie. I'm on the fence. There are years where I watch it around Christmas and there are years where it feels like a Halloween must watch. It is definitely the latter this year. I've listened to "This is Halloween" more times than I care to admit! Something else fueling my Nightmare Before Christmas love? A Charmed Aroma candle, of course. This decor piece and candle in one has been making the season especially spooky. Ready to find out more? Here is the latest review and reveal....

hey, it's good to be back home again.

Long time no see! After a little over a week away, things are finally getting back on track here at the creation of beauty is art. In case you missed my last post, my family and I took a vacation to California recently. It was my first time leaving the country since the pandemic, so it was certainly a memorable experience. There will be more on that in the days to come. I'll be sharing travel photos and highlights some time next week. For now? I am trying to unpack, get caught up on life, and celebrate my birthday. Yes, today is my birthday. Our flight got in late last night, and even though there was only a three hour time difference, the jet lag is real. I am not exactly in a celebratory mood, but it is my birthday nonetheless.

one/size + disney fantasia week: storybook face and eye palette

Here it is! The last post in the One/Size theme week here on the creation of beauty is art. Over the past few days, there have been reviews dedicated to eyeliner, brushes, highlighter, and even some lip products. Today? It is all about the eyes and cheeks. Though there are lots of wonderful beauty products out there, eyeshadow palettes are always the standouts for me. I love a good palette! I especially love a palette with a cute theme. Right off the bat, the Storybook Mickey Face and Eye Palette checks off an awful lot of boxes. It is clear that a lot of thought went into the packaging and overall design. Ready to take a look inside? Here is everything you need to know about this Disney Fantasia inspired product from One/Size.

one/size + disney fantasia week: dazzling extras

Though it is nice to have everyday essentials, the unexpected beauty items tend to be far more fun and exciting. Case in point? The Bit of Magic Highlighter and Lip Snatcher Velvet Flex Cream and Cushion Gloss Lip Duo from One/Size. The previous post in this theme week was dedicated to essentials like brushes, complexion puffs, and eyeliner. Today? It is all about the glitz and glamour. Keep reading to find out how these Disney Fantasia themed products performed and to see them in action.

one/size + disney fantasia week: everyday beauty essentials

One/Size theme week is officially underway here on the creation of beauty is art. In case you missed the introduction post yesterday, this week is all about the Disney Fantasia collection from One/Size. Since I love Disney and love beauty products, this really is the ultimate collaboration. There are six items in total, but today will be focused on three of the more everyday essential items. This includes the Versatile Complexion Brush, Ultimate Mickey Mouse Puff, and the Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen. Curious about how their performance? It is time to take a closer look at these themed products.

one/size + disney fantasia week: collection haul

This is easily the most thrilling makeup collection of the year. One/Size recently released a six item Disney Fantasia collection to serious fanfare. The packaging and the theme instantly caused a lot of stir online...and for good reason. Since my mom is totally obsessed with Disney (and passed that love down to me) she decided to purchase the entire collection for both of us. It was extremely unexpected but so very appreciated. Thanks to her generosity, the entire One/Size + Disney Fantasia collection will be reviewed here on the creation of beauty is art. Yes, all posts this week will be dedicated to the collection. 

journal prompts and affirmations for the fall season.

Ahh...the crisp fall air. There is truly nothing like it. What could be better than a morning walk with a warm sweater while the leaves change colour? Autumn is special. No doubt about it! Since this is such a wonderful time of year, it is important to take a moment to appreciate it all. Something that I like to do as one season shifts to another is journal and recite targeted affirmations. This can really put things in perspective, make it easier to set goals, and ensure that your mindset is positive. Here are a few journal prompts and fall-themed affirmations to make sure this season is fabulous from beginning to end.

testing out pixi skin care products.

It has been a while since my last Pixi review here on the creation of beauty is art. It isn't that the brand doesn't pique my interest, but it tends to be on the pricier side for the drugstore. As a result, it tends to be more of a splurge than an everyday purchase. There has to be something that really nabs my attention. Since skin care has been high on my to do list this year, there were a few Pixi skin care items that stood out to me on a recent visit to the store. One was the Glow Mist and the other was the +Rose Essence Oil. Keep reading to find out how these drugstore skin care products performed....

spirit halloween haul (scream, trick r treat, haunted mansion)

Fall is a wonderful time of year. There is something so special about the season! I know a lot of people love the spring and summer months, because it means sunshine and outdoor activities, but fall and winter make me positively giddy with excitement. When it comes to fall, I specifically love the cooler temperatures, sweater weather, and Halloween. Oh, and the fact that a Spirit Halloween store is everywhere you turn. I am slightly obsessed with these seasonal pop up shops. Each one is overloaded with Halloween costumes, accessories, spooky decor, and horror themed items. There is so much to fall in love with. Over the last little while, there have been a handful of trips to nearby Spirit Halloween stores. Though I would love to take home absolutely everything (I am obsessed with all holidays and holiday related items) only a few well-chosen pieces came home with me. Ready to take a look at it all? It is time for a little Spirit Halloween haul...

review: too faced light my fire on-the-fly eyeshadow palette

Nothing wows me more than an eyeshadow palette with lots of warm and wearable colours. Or Too Faced Cosmetics. It is no secret that I have a total obsession with this brand. I've written about Too Faced over and over again here on the creation of beauty is art. Their products are always nicely themed and add a little extra light to my makeup routine. Sometimes, items from Too Faced are purchased from Sephora, sometimes loved ones gift me things from the brand, and other times, Too Faced products are found at Winners. The latter is always a thrill. Not only do I love makeup, but I love makeup with a more affordable price. A few months back, the Light My Fire On-The-Fly Eyeshadow Palette caught my eye. Since a different On-The-Fly Eyeshadow Palette wowed previously, I was especially eager to try the Light My Fire version. Ready to take a look inside?

my experience at the world of barbie event.

Though it is still difficult for me to be out and about in the world...my family continues to encourage me to leave the house every now and then. This time? It was the lure of Barbie that encouraged me to head outside. Not too far away, the World of Barbie exhibit was available for fans of all ages to live their Barbie fantasy. There was a full-sized model of the Barbie Dreamhouse and camper van as well as life size Barbie doll boxes, a Barbie space shuttle, and more. It was certainly a feast for the eyes! For as long as I can remember, this iconic doll has been a part of my life. (My first word was "Barbie.") I admired her incredible house, undeniable eye for fashion, and the fact that she could be literally anything. Given my history with the doll, it was hard to resist a Barbie themed event. Ready to find out how it was? Take a peek at all of the recreations? Keep reading...

does it work?? sally hansen nail polish (good. kind. pure.)

When it comes to nail polish, certain brands stand out. Essie. OPI. Sally Hansen. The latter is my personal favourite. There are a lot of really excellent Sally Hansen products, from the Miracle Gel line to the Insta-Dry line and everything in between. Today? It is time to take a look at a newer formula from the brand: Good. Kind. Pure. This vegan nail polish was certainly intriguing. Out of all the nail polishes I have tried over the years (and there have been many nail polishes in my life) this was the first time I recall seeing a vegan polish. So...does it work?? Here is everything you need to know about this new line from Sally Hansen. 

kim chic chic beauty: teddy kim boyfriend (review + #FOTD)

It is all Kim Chi Chic Beauty all the time around here these days. I have been making the absolute most of the products lately. Just like the Girlfriend version, the Teddy Kim Boyfriend Eye and Cheek Palette comes in an adorable teddy bear shape. It is sturdy enough to stand up on its own and can be customized with the included stickers. Unlike the other version, this has some really bright and colourful eyeshadows hidden away inside. (Which is definitely what I would expect from a drag queen makeup line!) I love that both of the palettes from this line have distinct colour stories. Ready to see what this palette actually looks like? How I decorated it? A recent #FOTD? Keep reading for all the details on this oh-so-cute eye and cheek palette. 

kim chic chic beauty: teddy kim girlfriend (review + #FOTD)

It is time for a little more Kim Chi Chic Beauty! My last post included a mini haul of some items from the brand and also a review of the High Key Gloss in the shade Natural. Today? It is all about the Girlfriend Eye and Cheek Palette. This is described as a merch and makeup hybrid, because it is literally shaped like a pink teddy bear and can stand on its own. There is also makeup tucked away inside. Such a cute idea and absolutely adorable to have on display. Bonus? The Teddy Kim set comes with stickers so you can personalize your own bear. It is a great way to feel like a kid again and get creative. Clearly, the packaging is outstanding...but what about what is on the inside? It is time to take a look at the eye and cheek products.

kim chi chic beauty (mini haul + high key gloss review)

RuPaul's Drag Race has introduced the world to many talented drag performers. Over the years, some have stood out to me more than others. My all-time favourite is Alaska, but another performer that is high on my list is Kim Chi from Season 8 of RuPaul's Drag Race. I immediately fell in love with her incredible makeup skills. Kim Chi is ridiculously talented and has continued to gain popularity post-show. Especially since Kim Chi Chic Beauty launched back in 2019. Good news for Canadian fans and beauty lovers: the beauty brand is finally available in Canada. Many of the products can be found on the Shoppers Drug Mart website. Which is exactly how this mini haul of Kim Chi Chic Beauty came to be. 

review: harry potter love potion candle (charmed aroma)

Harry Potter has been a constant in my life. I have such wonderful memories of lining up for book releases and midnight screenings of the movies. Of staying up too late reading and re-reading the books. Of relaxing on a Sunday afternoon with my favourite Harry Potter film. Though the author is not someone I support any longer, I still love the Harry Potter world. (It is hard to believe that someone who wrote about love and understanding could be so...well...you know.) The stories were about good versus evil, confronting your fears, and doing the right thing. They were about friendship, found family, and love. It makes sense that these stories have connected with so many readers and viewers around the world. Since Harry Potter is still an important part of my life, it was hard to resist the latest Charmed Aroma release: a Love Potion Candle. 

rediscovered foundation: maybelline dream matte mousse

Talk about a flashback. It had been years since I last saw the Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse on a drugstore shelf. Then, suddenly, there is was, as if no time had passed at all. Immediately, I was reminded of life before. Of girls nights out, of my old fast food job, and university classes. This product certainly sparked a lot of nostalgia. So, of course, it only made sense to give it another try. Would it be just like the Dream Matte Mousse I used to know? Would it actually work well? I had to find out. If you're curious about this old-school drugstore product from Maybelline, keep reading for all the details.

love it or leave it? olivia wilde

There is something thrilling about red carpet style. Whether it is a movie premiere or a press conference, celebrities certainly know how to inspire and turn heads. Case in point? Olivia Wilde at the Venice Film Festival press conference for her latest film, "Don't Worry Darling." Though there has been an awful lot of buzz about this movie, some good and some not-so-good, I am interested in seeing the film. There aren't nearly enough female directors out there. (According to a Forbes article, only 12% of directors working on the top 100 grossing films in 2021 were women.) So, this movie is on my radar. While reading some of the highlights from the press conference with the cast, I was immediately struck by Olivia Wilde's outfit, which was shown in the article. That gorgeous green colour. Wow! After seeing the entire look, it was clear that this was the perfect candidate for another love it or leave it? post here on the creation of beauty is art. Let's take a closer look at this press conference style...

does it work?? honest beauty (makeup remover wipes)

There are full skin care routine nights...and there are makeup remover wipe nights. Sometimes, my mind is clear, focused, and I am determined to take good care of my skin. Other times, I am so exhausted that it takes all my remaining energy to drag a makeup wipe across my face. Over the years, I've tried quite a few different makeup wipes from an assortment of brands. (I've even tried reusable makeup wipes, which are always nice to have on hand.) Though there are some that I like more than others, I wouldn't exactly say that I am brand loyal. It comes down to whatever is on sale. Recently, a sample of the Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes was given to me. It was perfect timing, since I was low on makeup wipes. So, does it work?? Here is everything you need to know about the Honest Beauty Makeup Remover Wipes with Grape Seed and Olive Oils.