Archive for June, 2009

While making my weekly Whole Foods run, I decided to pop into the Walgreens next door to check out the Revlon Colorstay foundations. One of my trusted homies suggested the Revlon Colorstay as an affordable substitute for her fave Bobbi Brown foundation.  She informed me that she can wear white in peace because none of the foundation stains her clothes. Woohoo

The Walgreens’ store where I went did not have any color beyond Caramel, which some say is similar to MAC’s NC45 foundation.  Instead, I picked up the Revlon Custom Creations SPF 15 Foundation in Deep (Retails for $13.99.) According to the Revlon website, the foundation “offers five shade settings, making it easy to fine-tune your foundation shade for the perfect match.”  How many of us have mixed foundation to a create shade that is suitable for our complexions?  I know I have!! I think the concept is a great idea, but does not go far enough.  There needs to be a darker custom creation.  Maybe a (070) Revlon?? I am not railing against Revlon because the company does  sell foundations for darker-skinned women.

The Deep (060) shade works for me.  I use the 4.5 on the dial. For some reason, I found it difficult to press the button to release the foundation … almost broke my nail.  But really, that is a minor inconvenience.

I like this foundation … lightweight and looked natural. I would not replace my Makeup For Ever foundations for this foundation,  but I will add to my stash, specifically for running errands.

Overall Rating: 3.75
Price [Value]: 3.5
Packaging Quality: 4
Would you buy this product again? Yes

“If You Let Me Stay” by Terence Trent D’arby aka Sananda Maitreya

It has been quite humid in my part of the US. Now, I am not complaining because I know other locations have had rain non-stop.

I had been eying the La Femme Emerald sparkle dust, which is reminiscent of MAC Humid e/s, a wonderful mid-tone green that is versatile for all seasons.

In this look, I used Delft P/P and a smear of Pharaoh P/P as bases. I think Delft, Moss Scape and Pharaoh P/P are suitable bases by themselves, no need to mix.  La Femme Emerald on the lid and NARS China Blue in the crease.

Lip products used are NYX Barbie Pink lip gloss (base) and Style Warrior’s Purple Rite lipstick.

I think this product is definitely good quality and many top MAs use this brand. A little goes a long way!  No sticker shock on this price, especially in this economy.  The only con, which can also be a pro, is filled to the top, so I suggest putting the La Femme loose eye shadow powder in a container than has a sifter to reduce spillage.

More Swatches

Beatin’ the Heat,

Mix Maven

Asos.com is one of my favorite online retailers.  Based in the United Kingdom, this e-tailer offers affordable chic and designer products.  My favorite sections, of course, are the shoes and beauty sections.   I love the fact that you can see prices in US dollars, no need to convert anything yourself.

In honor of July 4th, Asos.com is offering free shipping to ALL US customers,  from June 18, 2009 – June 24, 2009.  The cool thing…no minimum purchase!! Woohoo!!!

No code needed!

So stock on items that are unavailable in the United States and enjoy!  I recommend stocking up on  Eyeko, Barry M Dazzle Dusts and Bourjois Brushes.  FYI, if you are purchasing clothes, ALWAYS refer to the size chart!

Happy Haulin’

Mix Maven

Retails for $2,830 USD

Christian Louboutin has done it again! Creating an absoluely fab pump. These dazzling foot candies are described as “blue spechio with allover multicolor jewels.” These pumps are absolutely chic, but I definitely would tweak the color scheme a bit.

Mix Maven

Neutrogena has proven that discount brands do care about the quality of products that are offered to the masses.  A recent post mentioned that Neutrogena wipes as one of the best make-up removers compared to discount and high-end brands.  Phyllis of Forty is the New 20 blog told me Neutrogena wipes were the best she had ever used.  I had to try them out and  yes, the wipes are good, especially at removing mascara and eyeliner.

Because of my positive experience with the wipes, I decided to try the Neutrogena Deep Clean Relaxing Nightly Cleanser

(6.7 fl oz [124 ml]), price is < $8.00 USD. The product is purple with mini beads.  Fortunately, the beads are not abrasive. The lather is foamy, which I like very much!

The first time I used the cleanser after a long day of wearing makeup. First, I cleansed my face with the Neutrogena wipes and washed my face with the deep clean cleanser twice.   My face did not tingle, which was a fear because I have somewhat sensitive skin.  My skin did feel quite clean.

Overall Rating: 4
Price [Value]: 4
Packaging Quality: 4
Would you buy this product again? Yes

I would definitely purchase the item again, even though I am not a huge fan of the scent.  The scent is not offensive, so some will enjoy it.

Mix Maven

Ms. I.

Kissable Couture's Smooches

I want to thank all those who entered the giveaway.  There is still more to come.

Mix Maven

I was introduced to the cosmetic brand,  FACE atelier via Specktra.net.  Some of the members loved the products, especially the foundations.  I was re-introduced to this brand at The Makeup Show in Los Angeles.  The Pro-Team was quite helpful. FYI: FACE atelier is the official makeup sponsor of Madonna’s Confessions Tour.

I was matched up to the Ultra Foundation PRO in Cocoa #10, which happens to be the darkest shade FA carries in the line.  FACE atelier needs to create darker shades because it is the right thing to do, BUT FA does offer products called Zero Plus and Zero Minus to foundation darker or lighter.  The foundation costs $30 for the size is a bit steep, but I love it.

I really like the coverage and the liquid does not burn or tingle my face like some other high-end brands. I love the fact the foundation is unscented. There is no SPF in the products, so users can always add the desirable number of SPF.

Sidebar: Use the Beauty Blender sponge for smooth application.  All beauty mavens  should be using the Beauty Blender and cleanser, which is the best EVER!!!

Face Atelier products can be found online as well as in salons and boutiques around the world. I wish that FACE Atelier was available in more stores.

FACE atelier PRO Foundation #10

Mix Maven

FACE atelier is looking for representatives to join the Pro Team for the Los Angeles IMATS on June 20 – 21, 2009.

Candidates need to:

• Have retail experience and familairity with the FACE atelier brand
• Have resumes and references
• Email information to Simmy Lipsman at slipsman@faceatelier.com

If you are interested, please contact ASAP!!!

To applicants – I wish you all the best!!

Mix Maven