palette fail: almay the complete look

Sometimes, an item is just too good to be true. Take Almay's The Complete Look palette as an example. It included six eyeshadow shades, four lip products, and a blush. Best of all? It was on sale for just $5. I couldn't understand why they were so eager to clear this particular set from their stock...but now I know. At a glance, this set had it all. You really could create a complete look with just one palette. If it worked well, this would be a wonderful set for travel or to toss into your purse. There were so many possibilities! Except for one small detail: the quality was seriously lacking.

reading habits tag + six books on my to-read list

Reading is one of my oldest loves. Many of my most cherished childhood memories involve a book of some sort. In my teenage years, books became my safe place. To this day, reading is a huge part of who I am. Books help me learn, explore, and imagine. After seeing a reading habits post from the wonderful Amanda Mercuri (which you can read here), I knew immediately it was time to do a book related post here on the creation of beauty is art. For today's post, it is books, books, and more books. That's right. I'll be answering questions from the reading habits tag as well as showing you a few of the books on my to-read list.

too faced razzle dazzle berry eyeshadow palette (review + swatches)

It's rare but it happens. Every now and again, a makeup item takes your breath away. That is the best possible way I can describe my reaction to the Too Faced Razzle Dazzle Berry eyeshadow palette. It was part of the Tutti Frutti line of products, which you can check out here. Quite frankly, this product launch had eluded me. For one reason or another, I hadn't actually heard about the Tutti Frutti products at all and was surprised to see a handful of them during a visit to Ulta several months back. On a whim, this small palette was added to my basket. And I am so glad it was! Interested in trying this for yourself? Want to know what to expect? Here is my full review, complete with swatches and a finished makeup look.

beginner series: foundations for every skin type

Winter weather is harsh. That alone can wreak havoc on your skin, making it difficult to keep your foundation looking flawless. The solution? Get a new foundation. Just because you have normal to oily skin during the summer months doesn’t necessarily mean you'll have the same skin type during fall, spring, or those chilly winter months. Whether you’ve been seeing flakes or tons of shine, take a deep breath. You simply need to switch up your foundation to make sure it suits your current skin type. Don’t know which brands to choose or what to look for? This guide will help you find the right foundation for your needs. 

celebrating four years on youtube.

Wow! The expression time flies really rings true when it comes to my YouTube channel. This week marks the four year anniversary of my very first video. Since then, I have filmed, edited, and posted 184 videos (on topics including makeup reviews, tutorials, fashion look books, motivational tips, and even workout related videos). I've also been fortunate enough to reach over 100, 000 video views. Considering my biggest fear was that no one would ever watch what I created....that milestone is especially significant. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to anyone that has ever watched or supported my channel. I hope you know how much it means to me! Today, I wanted to celebrate the last four years - and take a look back at some of my favourite videos.

new in: accessories from betsey johnson + nina ricci

Accessories are always in style. I don't know quite what it is about accessories, but they always seem to make me smile. It amazes me how the right bracelet or set of earrings can transform a look. One moment you are sweet and simple and the next, edgy and over the top. Though I have been trying to be a little more selective about the accessories added into my collection (because quite frankly, my accessories collection is a little full)....there are a few new items that I have been enjoying lately.

happy valentines day + tips to look stylish this valentines day

Happy Valentine's Day! I have always loved holidays. There is something special about all of the wonderful seasonal events. Whether it is a birthday, Christmas, or Valentine's Day....there seems to be a lovely kind of magic in the air. When it comes to this particular holiday, there are plenty of exciting ways to celebrate. You can share a dinner date with a significant other, go to a movie with a good friend, hang out with family members, or shower yourself with lots and lots of self love. Whatever you choose to do today, have fun. Throw on some pink lipstick, eat heart shaped candies, and always remember to smile. After all, this is a day of love and celebration.

And the sunlight clasps the earth 

   And the moonbeams kiss the sea: 

What is all this sweet work worth 

   If thou kiss not me? 

- Percy Bysshe Shelley (Love's Philosophy)