Showing posts with label opi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label opi. Show all posts

Beauty Review: O.P.I. Brights Inspired By Shrek Forever After


New for Spring, O.P.I's new Brights are inspired by DreamWorks Animation Shrek Forever After. Suzi Weiss-Fischmann says, “The Shrek Forever After colors were inspired by characters living in a fantasy world unlike any other fairy tale that is unapologetically vivid, bold, and unique in every sense.”



I'm a big fan of O.P.I. and think their polishes are of superior quality. However, I wasn't totally blown away by this collection. I got to test out Funky Dunkey, a creamy dark purple pictured above. It's probably my favourite shade from the collection. I also got to test out Who The Shrek Are You?, described as a brilliant green but to me looks more like a snotty green. I did not like this shade as it made my skin tone look more sallow. It would probably look better on someone with fairer or deep dark skin with cool undertones.

Overall, some of the shades are ok but this collection is a pass for me. What did you think? Love it? Hate it? Want it? 

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Happy St. Patty's Day!


Are you wearing your green today? In honour of St. Patrick's Day I am wearing one of the few green things I own - O.P.I. Jade Is the New Black from the Hong Kong collection. I was chatting with my Twitter peeps and realized just how black and white my wardrobe is! 

Jade Is the New Black is a much deeper green in person. It is very green though and a trendy shade I rarely reach for it. I fell in love with it when I first tried it but it seems more appropriate for a day like today! But it's a fun colour for spring and if you're wearing all black looks great as an accessory!

For more green beauty check out Glitter Geek Arianne's gorgeous green eyes!

What do you think of this polish shade? Love it? Hate it? Want it? 

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Beauty Feature: Spring Love






















Spring is in the air! Can you feel the love? Makeup Junkie receives hoards of beauty products to try out and I love giving you the skinny on what's hot in spring trends. Here are some of my faves so far. Stay tuned for more spring goodies!

Revolution Organics Freedom Gloss in Freedom: I was excited to find this lippie in my swag from the Toronto Beauty Blogger Brunch last month. Totally loving this gloss! Why? Revolution Organics products are formulated with 100% natural and 85% certified organic ingredients. I love good-for-you glosses that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. You won't find harsh chemicals, parabens, mineral oil, petroleum or artificial ingredients in this gloss. The packaging is also 100% recyclable and biodegradable. 

Freedom is a lovely strawberry red derived from an all-natural mineral-based pigment. It's spring love in a gloss! Freedom gives you the perfect kiss of red on the lips that it not over-powering. If you love glosses that appear more like a moisturizing stain then you will love this one. It's not a high-shine gloss but I don't mind because it's so wearable for day. The gloss applies sheer but is buildable. If you are hesitant to rock a red lip during the day try this one out! 

Mary Kay Cheek Glaze in Mandarin & Pomegranate: When I first opened these eye-popping shades of gel stains, I knew these would be a spring hit! I love gel stains because they not only last but they give your skin a beautiful glow. These felt very light-weight and never felt sticky or tacky. Don't be afraid of the bright juicy hues - they apply sheer and are extremely buildable. In fact, I had to apply a few layers to get the ideal intensity. Love both shades - Mandarin fits perfectly into the coral trends and Pomegranate is a classic berry flush. They are infused with extracts of Mandarin, Orange, Watermelon, Peach and Vitamin E. It can also double up as a lip stain! These pots offer a lot of product and are awesome to use if you're a makeup artist. Just scoop out with a spatula and apply! Available March 16.

O.P.I. Hong Kong Collection Hot & Spicy: I attended an exclusive launch sometime last Fall and was ecstatic to receive a manicure and the entire collection! I'll admit, there were some shades I wasn't in love with and gave away but there are definitely a few keepers. On the coral trend again, Hot & Spicy is such a great melon-coral. It's not too orange and really pops against your skin especially if you have a tan. Loves!

Vasanti Lipstick in Denmark: This lipstick has got my pulse racing! I've been on the hunt for a fuchsia-magenta shade like Denmark. This is a bold notice-me lip shade that is new for spring and would look amazing with a nude or bronzey eye. The texture is ultra creamy and highly pigmented. It lasted on the lips and even left a nice stain after eating and drinking. Denmark looks gorgeous when paired with a LBD or neutral clothing. 

Vasanti The Hamptons Eye Colour Palette: Well, this is probably the closest I'll get to visiting the Hamptons for now! Vasanti shadows are not only gorgeous but have a fabulous velvety texture and are highly pigmented. The set includes: soft neutral beige, soft peachy pink, neutral deep brown, periwinkle grey, and intense rich navy. All the shades are wearable and can easily go from day to night. I actually used the periwinkle grey and navy on a shoot yesterday. Produced a sultry smokey eye nicely. Also new for spring, this palette compliments the new lipstick shades Denmark, Sweden (nude pink), and Luxembourg (nude brown).

Have you tried any of these lovelies? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em?

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Beauty Feature: Makeup Junkie Holiday Gift Picks

"One for you, two for me", might be your shopping mantra this holiday season! The beauty goodies that come out for the holidays are always packaged so pretty -it's hard not to buy one for yourself.

Makeup Junkie wants to make your shopping a little easier which is why we've listed some must-have items that we were lucky enough to sample! Whether you're shopping for a gal pal or sister, make all her beauty-full wishes come true with these unforgettable gifts!

1. Julie Hewett Lip Lush Trio ($49 USD): These gorgeous gifts are for the glam girl in mind. Julie Hewett has to be one of my all time favourite makeup lines! Created by celebrity makeup artist, Julie Hewett, this line is truly for the makeup lover who loves beautiful packaging and wants to achieve the perfect red-carpet look.

Trio includes three best-selling glosses: harlow (sparks of red and gold), mimi (perfect sheer pink), and nude (24k gold shimmer).

2. Julie Hewett 6-pc Noir Collection ($100 USD): Imagine unwrapping this on Christmas day? Julie Hewett lipsticks are in heavy rotation in my makeup bag. This collection features the 6 original noir shades: belle, coco, femme, nude, rouge and sin.

Packaged in a luxe gold tube, these lipsticks are a special treat on the lips. Infused with the essence of rosebud and camellia oils, your lips feel hydrated and colour is long-lasting.

3. Benefit Celebutante Personal Stylist Kit ($34 USD): Benefit Cosmetics is known for creating pretty palettes fit for Hollywood’s elite. This A-lister kit includes everything for creating that perfect red-carpet ready look! I love all the mini size products - perfect for stashing in those small holiday clutches!

4. M.A.C. Miracles Happen Viva Glam Lip Kit ($27 CDN): Feel good beauty is always a great gift! M.A.C.'s best-selling Viva Glam lippies are included in this sleek dotted-design compact. Every cent goes towards M.A.C. Aids Fund for men, women, and children living with aids.

5. Kat Von D True Romance Eye Shadow Palette in True Love ($44 CDN): Kat Von D’s tattoo-inspired eye shadow palette is for the fashionista who likes to be creative with her makeup. The shades are ultra edgy and highly pigmented. You can create so many looks with this fab palette!

6. The Sartorialist by Scott Shuman ($31 CDN): I don't know any makeup junkie that isn't a fashion lover. “The Satorialist” is the must-have coffee table book for fashion lovers everywhere. Scott Shuman's street images of real people with personal style have inspired many people around the globe.

7. Stila The Makeup Player ($69.90 USD): Save this one for your "bestie" or for yourself! Awarded Beauty Innovation of the Year, The Makeup Player includes: Pro artist makeup case to stash your fave Stila products, One Step Makeup, Eye shadow trio, Convertible Color, #7 brush Eye shadow brush, Lip Glaze, and Beautytube DVD & instruction card.

8. Alicia Silverstone by ecoTools Train Case ($19 USD): We all have a friend that's lucky enough to jet-set all around the world! Animal and environmental activist, Alicia Silverstone, has teamed up with, ecoTools, to create a gorgeous line of eco-friendly traveling bags made with a natural hemp material featuring a floral design. The large compartment will hold all her beauty staples and comes with a handy removable clear case!

9. Zoya Holiday Color Lock Set ($7.50 USD): DIY mani's are always in especially in this economy. This mini set has all the essentials for the perfect manicure: Zoya Remove, Armour Top Coat, Anchor Base Coat, and HurryUp Speed Dry Drops.

10. OPI Mini Merries ($14.95 CDN): Accessorize your gal pal's tips in the hottest shades for the holiday. OPI lovers will squeal over this sample set of 4: Comet Loves Cupid (classic red), All A-Bordeaux the Sled! (luscious Wine), Holiday Glow (charcoal grey with silver) and Shim-merry Chic (glimmery bronze).

11. Tarte Three Carats Mini Cheek Stain Set ($25 USD): Diamond-inspired makeup are a girl's best friend! I adore these mini cheek stains for the flirty glow they leave on your skin. I especially love using the bronze shimmery shade as a highlighter! Tarte products are good for the skin and contain no parabens, phthlates, and other toxic chemicals.

12. Tarte Crown Jewels Lipgloss Multi-Gift Set ($39 USD): This is one stocking stuffer that is a sure winner! The geniuses at Tarte know that girls love their gloss. This set comes with 3-boxed sets of glosses to be gifted anyway you want! Their sample sizes are much bigger than last holiday's gloss set too. What was that beauty mantra again??

What are your hot items for gift giving this holiday? Makeup Junkie wants to know!

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Beauty Review: OPI “Sea? I told you!”


I’m not one to wear glittery or frosty nail polishes, that is, until I came across OPI’s Sea? I Told You from the Sunbelieveable collection. This color is just gorgeous! It’s an aquamarine turquoise blue with glitters in it that dries to an almost foil looking finish. I had to apply at least 3 coats for it to look even. Everywhere I went I my nails couldn’t help but get compliments. They really stood out. I love that this nail polish is long wearing. It hasn’t chipped or flaked on me yet after a week of wear. This is a beautiful color to wear with summer coming to an end and as we transition into the fall.

www.opi.com

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Beauty Feature: Oh-la-la Summer Nails

Yes, I know summer is almost over but that doesn't mean I can't gush over my top picks for summer nails. My nails were bright and sunny thanks to these hot shades from Zoya and OPI!

1. OPI South Beach Collection in Party in My Cabana: This gorgeous creamy pink is such a pretty colour on fingers and toes. Such a flirty colour it couldn't help but get compliments all the time!
2. Zoya La-Di-Da Collection in Pippa: Sunny banana yellow! Love! Rocked this on tips and toes.
3. Zoya La-Di-Da Collection in Ali: Neon pink is so me! Loved how opaque this colour was, but the finish dried almost like a matte polish. Once I swiped on a top coat it was good to go. Didn't like it so much on my toes - it lost its shine once my toes were in sand. It was also hard to get dirt off the colour.
4. OPI South Beach Collection in Conga-line-Coral: Metallic coral rose - it's like a sunset on your fingers and toes!
5. Zoya La-Di-Da Collection in Paz: I'm so a kid of the 80's because I gravitate to bright neons! Hot neon orange shade for the summer especially on tanned skin!
6. Zoya La-Di-Da Collection in America: This sophisticated bright orange red perfect for those summer cocktail events.

What shades were you rockin' this summer? Makeup Junkie wants to know!

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Beauty Feature: Mani/Pedi Rescue Products for Summer

I'm notorious for dry hands, chipping nails, and tired cracked heels. I'm constantly washing my hands and constantly chasing after a 2 year old. With all the hot neon nail colours hitting the shelves this summer, you've got to keep your hands and feet in tip-top shape. Here are some products to keep your hands and feet summer-ready!

Manicure Rescue:

Nailtiques Cuticle & Skin Gel ($4-15 USD): Love it! Nailtiques Cuticle & Skin Gel is a thick concentrated glycerin and aloe enriched formula that conditions and penetrates deeply into the skin. Ever since I've started using this, my hands feel super soft and my cuticles crack less preventing those nasty hang nails. You can also use this on rough elbows and knees. Perfect for nail biters. Apply sparingly and massage into dry areas. I use this every time I give myself a manicure. Pushing cuticles back is a piece of cake now!
Nailtiques Cuticle and Hand Conditioner ($4-15 USD): I carry this in my purse at all times. Nailtiques Cuticle and Hand Conditioner is a highly concentrated combination of pure aloe and jojoba oils that rehydrates and conditions the hand and cuticle area. It softens the cuticles and skin without softening the nails. It's non-greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin. This tube of magic is portable and great for applying throughout the day anytime your hands need a pick-me-up.


Nailtiques Pink and Green Sponge File ($5 USD): I love products that are portable and don't add extra pounds to my purse. These little files come in a pack of 10 so you can keep one handy just about anywhere you are. The green side safely shapes nails without creating splits. The pink side is beneficial when patches are necessary, as well as for the removal of stains and/or ridges from the nail surface. This little emery board files my nails quickly and perfectly. Use before you apply any polish.


OPI Retro Fun In The Sun Collection: I am loving the brights and the bolds of this summer's hottest hues! OPI's Retro Fun In the Sun summer collection is fun, flirty, and totally retro! My favourite right now is "Lemondade Stand by Your Man", a bright yellow-gold with a metallic finish. If you're scared to wear bright colours on your face then have fun with colour on your nails! You'll get noticed for all the right reasons. ;)


Nailtiques Non-Acetone Remover ($2-6 USD): When it's time to switch up polish colours, you want to make sure your nails are free of old polish before applying another. Nailtiques Non-Acetone Remover is an acetone-free formula that is extremely gentle for both nails and skin. This remover contains aloe and conditioners so your nails and cuticles are never dry or brittle.

For more information on Nailtiques visit www.nailtiques.com .
For more information on OPI products visit www.opi.com .

Pedicure Rescue:

Jessica ZenSpa Intense Heel Repair Creme ($16.95 - 39.95 USD): This has become my go-to moisturizer for dry cracked heels. My feet feel instantly smooth and rejuvenated. It also has a nice light ginger fragrance to it. A little goes a long way so this tub of moisturizer will last you for a long time. I never leave the house without applying it. My feet have never looked so good in sandals!


Jessica ZenSpa Blissful Calming Green Tea Bath ($6.25 - 49.95 USD): This foot soak is supposed to refresh, rejuvenate and revive tired, aching feet. How nice does that sound?! So, to pamper myself, I poured a little ZenSpa Blissful Calming Green Tea Bath into a square bucket of warm water. I actually tried it while sitting outside, under our new gazebo to make my spa experience that much better! The scent is just the right intensity and smells very spa-like. It foams just a little bit, which is nice and easy to manage. The directions say to put a generous amount, but I noticed that a little goes a long way. I did notice it was somewhat oily. I’m sure this is to help moisturize, but not sure that I love this. After my feet dried, I decided not to moisturize because of the oiliness but within a few minutes they were feeling dry. Just apply the Heel Repair Creme and your feet will be feeling supple in no time!

Jessica ZenSpa Refreshed Green Tea Calming Foot Spray ($6.25 - 14.95 USD): The spray has natural botanicals and menthol that instantly stimulate and revive tired, aching feet leaving them fresh and rejuvenated. I thought the spray smelled soo nice. I like to spray this when I’m in my room so the scent lingers. However, I didn’t notice anything else with this besides the calming scent. I also expected the price to be less expensive than the foot soak but an 8 ounce bottle is the same price. But on a hot day, a little spritz of this does feel nice and cools the feet!

Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear ($2.99 - 4.99 CDN): I love finding beauty steals and Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear is one of them! They come in so many bright summer-ready shades! This polish glides easily and evenly. It's also DBP, Toluene, and Formaldehyde free. The polish is long-lasting and remained chipped-free for over 7 days. My absolute favourite shade right now is the limited-edition polish in "Psychedelic Purple". It's a bright, metallic polish that is absolutely gorgeous on the toes and your fingers!

Happy shopping!

For more information on Jessica Cosmetics visit www.jessicacosmetics.com and for information on Sally Hansen products visit www.sallyhansen.com .

by Shiv and Joy

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