It's Over! It's Finally Over!

Photo Credit: Someecards.com

Today is a wonderful, amazing, brilliant holiday. It marks nine months and eight days until we have to deal with another round of those God-awful jewelry commercials! Seriously, if I have to hear that, "Every Kiss Begins With Kay" (Yay! You can spell!), or that, "he went to Jared" (which we don't even have within a driveable distance), or see Jane Seymour's wonky Z-shaped heart-butt abomination one more time, I may have to pelt their offices with rotten Edible Arrangements, or have FTD deliver some dead roses.

I'm so sick of these materialistic commercials. For me, Valentine's is about showing appreciation for all the loves in your life--not about going into debt trying to quantify your affection. My Valentine's plans? A home-cooked dinner, a fancy homemade dessert, and some snuggling on the couch. It's about being together; not about diamonds, roses, or reservations.

So, to celebrate this blessed occasion, here are some fun deals on goodies for all my lovely little valentines out there. I adore you all! Have a fantastic day!

Old Navy: Save 14% off anything today with the code ONLOVE.

Dressbarn: Free Shipping today on orders $14 and over. No code needed.

Smashbox: Free Precision Liner with any purchase until 5pm ET. $20 value, and no code needed.

E.L.F.: Free Shipping on orders $14 and over with the code FSLOVE.

BeautyMint: Get $20 off a 4-piece system with the code VAL20. (exp. 2/15)

Aeropostale: Take 14% off anything (except clearance and fragrance) with the code 14VDAY.

DuWop: Save 14% sitewide. No code needed. (exp. 2/19)

TooFaced: Take 15% off your entire purchase with the code VDAYLOVE12.

Recession-Era Halloween Treats

Today's Frugal Friday's quick and easy. You can save 31% sitewide at DuWop cosmetics with the code BOOWOP, now through Halloween. Plus, you get free shipping on all orders. That's a darn good treat, if you ask me.

Okay, now that that's out of the way, how's about a little non-Halloween related product review?
Even better--how 'bout one that'll actually save you about $37? That got your attention, didn't it?!

A little while ago, I reviewed Bumble & Bumble's Let It Shine shampoo and conditioner, and loved it. L-O-V-E-D it! And don't get me wrong, I still do. It's utterly and completely amazing at imparting shine and sleekness, even in my city's crazy humidity. However, it's expensive and I am broke. Given my personal finances, almost twenty-five bucks a pop for shampoo and conditioner seems a bit...well, wasteful, at best, and downright irresponsible, at worst. One day, I may break down and buy a bottle of each, but it will then go into my "special occasion" pile, reserved for freshly-colored hair, or days when I have pictures or filming and don't want to take any chances. At that rate, one bottle of each should last, at least, a year. Unfortunately, I have standards, and insist on washing my hair more than once or twice a month. What's a girl to do?

Well, in my case, I pulled out my handy-dandy Total Beauty app, and scrolled through shampoos until I found the highest rated drugstore brand for color-treated hair. What I found was Pantene Pro-V Color Preserve Shine shampoo and conditioner. (Walmart, $3.78 each)

Now, I won't bore you with a play-by-play of my showering experience (unless you just want to know how long it takes to shave my legs, or how many times I got caught in the shower curtain? I mean, I hate to leave you hanging...). After I towel dried my hair, I worked in my usual pea-sized amount of Fekkai glossing cream ($9, Ulta) and blow-dried just like I normally would. When I got finished, I spritzed on a little of the Bumble & Bumble Shine On finishing spray (Sephora, $25), just like I did with the expensive stuff.

I couldn't tell the difference.

Seriously, if you took a picture of me after I used the expensive products, and compared it to a picture of me after using the Pantene, you, more than likely, couldn't tell which was which. What's more, I couldn't tell a difference during the blow-dry experience. I didn't have any trouble with frizz, fly-aways, tangles, or anything else. If anything, I think my hair might be softer with the Pantene, but I can't really count that as a con.

Now, it's true that I used a couple of higher-end styling products, but I kind of had to for comparison purposes. That said, I can totally justify the expense for both of those items, not only by their effectiveness, but also by the price per use. I've had that glossing cream for seven months, and have barely put a dent in the travel-sized bottle. That's working out to just a few cents per use. The finishing spray is significantly pricier, but still, with the need for only a small amount after each blow-out, this bottle will last for months, with a cost per use in the well-under-a-dollar range. The high-end shampoo and conditioner were running closer to a dollar each per use, with bottles lasting a few weeks, as opposed to a few months. That's a little more than I can go, especially with such an affordable duplicate available.

Final Verdict: 10 out of 10. As good as the expensive brand, but at a fraction of the cost. No complaints here.

The 2nd Annual Obligatory Twilight Post

Coke or Pepsi? Around here, that question not only determines what drink goes into your cup, but can actually factor into friendships, jobs, and possibly who you'll eventually marry. I kid you not.

Liberal or Conservative? Again, a polarizing question that can have major consequences if your views don't mesh with someone else's.

Boxers or Briefs? Not necessarily polarizing, but incredibly personal, and quite frankly, a little bit rude. Seriously, if you have to ask, you don't need to know.

When I write this blog, I try extremely hard not to write anything that could possibly offend anyone. That's not to say that I write pithy product reviews to keep companies happy--anyone who's read this blog for any length of time knows that I hold no punches! What I mean is that I try to avoid anything too controversial. This is a fun, safe place to visit. We're here to discuss makeup, fashion, pop culture, and all things cute and adorable (hence the name of the blog). There's no need to delve into anything ultra-personal or divisive...

...except for Twilight.

Twilight is that rare bird that touches all of the subjects we discuss here. There's Twilight makeup, Twilight clothing, Twilight movies and books, Twilight action figures...the list goes on. It's everywhere, and on top of that, it's Halloween, so it has to be addressed on the blog. Unfortunately, people tend to either really, really love Twilight, or really, really hate Twilight. There is practically no middle ground. You either want to stake Edward or marry him, end of story.

With that, I will not divulge my feelings toward the franchise or its characters. I am simply going to present to you with some stuff I found that you may or may not wish to either peruse or destroy. It's up to you. Just keep it clean in the comments, okay?

So, last year, we talked about glitter options and DuWop's Twilight Lip Venom. This year, we're focusing on supporting character, Alice.

First up, here's a really well-done, easy-to-follow makeup tutorial for an "Alice Cullen" look by Pixiewoo. In it, you'll see some really good tips, like remembering your ears and covering redness. The young lady in the video uses Make Up For Ever, but you can use whatever brands you prefer. Even if you hate Twilight, watch this for the eye makeup. It's amazing, and really easy to do.

GAH!!! The Embed Code didn't work!!! You can view the tutorial here!

I am now addicted to the Pixiwoo channel. I hope you're all happy. My productivity is shot for the rest of th--oooh, look! A Corpse Bride tutorial!!

Yeah...this could be bad...

Anyhoo...next, I found a beautiful, Alice-inspired palette from the DuWop Luna Twilight collection. It's a mini-palette (about the size of a credit card), but it packs a big punch with two coordinating eye shadows (silver and blue), two lip glosses (bright pink and hot pink), and a pinky-beige blush. Other palettes are available for fans of Victoria, Rosalie, and Bella (my personal favorite of the palettes), and all can be found at a fantastic discount at Beauty Ticket. The regular price is $28, and Alice is priced at only $16. Plus, right now you can save an extra 15% with the coupon code Halloween15.

I hope at least a few of you found this helpful. If there's something else in the Twilight world you'd like to see covered, please let me know in the comments. If there's not...well, then please remember to play nice. Thanks!

Lip Gloss On the Half-Shell

Photo Credit (This and All): DuWop

Summer is a great time to add a little color to your makeup routine, and DuWop has a new line out that makes it even more fun. Regardless of your feelings about the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise (I'm a fan, but that's not important), the colors and textures of the new Isla Sirena collection are sure to raise your main sail on the starboard side and swab the deck while walking the plank and...something something pirate...um...arr matey...yo ho! Saavy?

The collection is divided into three distinct looks: Mermaid (iridescent pastels and water colors), Pirate (smoky, sexy, bold tones), and Treasure (jewel tones and golds). The line includes a rotating compass-styled palette, with nine eye shadows, three gel eye liners, and three lip tints. Separately, lip, eye, and cheek duals are available in swashbuckling shades such as Relic, Mystic Waters, and Rogue, and come housed in stunning antique gold sea shell compacts. The line is rounded out with a trio of lip glosses, or Caribbean Iced Teas in Mint Mojito, Butter Rum, and Ruby Grapefruit. Prices run from $19 to $39, DuWop.

Note: I have not tried these products. This is not a review. I'm simply alerting you to the line's existence because I thought it was too freaking cute not to. Alright. End of note. Carry on.

The Obligatory Twilight Post

If there's one thing Peanuts taught me, it was that there are three things you should never discuss with people: religion, politics, and the Great Pumpkin. Well, Linus needs to add a fourth thing to that list: Twilight.

Apparently, with Twilight, you either hate it with an unbridled passion, or you're ready to build a religion around it (and, in that case, see above list). For example: my best friend loves this stuff. Can't get enough of it. Read all the books, saw all the movies (thus far), the whole shebang. My husband, on the other hand, hates it. When we rented the first movie, somewhere around the baseball scene, Thomas actually got up and performed a (sort-of) raindance to try to make the movie go away. He's an entertaining fellow, that one.

I refuse to state my Twi-hard status. Whether I'm Team Edward, Team Jacob, or whatever, is none of anyone's business (actually, I'm Team Brendon. The actor who played the werewolf in our movie was such a sweetheart and good sport that I couldn't help but want to adopt him. Seriously, anyone who can wear long sleeves, jeans, a letterman jacket, fur, wig, and prosthetics in 100-degree heat while running around like a maniac, and not only not complain, but actually crack jokes in-between takes is tops in my book). I don't want to alienate anyone who does or does not agree with my view on such a polarizing topic, so I'm keeping mum. In fact, I'm only writing this because Halloween is drawing ever nearer toward us, and I know that some of you will be vamping it up and might like some help. That's why I'm here.

Alrighty, so with that, on to the post I've dreaded all October!

Now, we all know that Twilight vamps sparkle in the sunlight (we're only discussing Twilight vamps today. Please bear that in mind). Well, now you can, too! The degree of subtlety is up to you.

Level 1: For a little "everyday" shimmer, Olay Body Wash Plus Tone Enriching Ribbons is the way to go. Use it in the shower, and while you might not notice it right off, when you step outside, the light reflects off of teeny-tiny mica flecks, and your skin sparkles in the sunlight. Like diamonds. Well, okay, not that much, but enough, and it makes your skin soft. Just don't try shaving with it. $4.99, Walgreens.

Level 2: For "going out" shimmer, you can't go wrong with Tarina Tarantino from Sephora. I have not personally tried this, but the pictures I've seen and the consistently 4 and 5-star user reviews speak for themselves. Sparklicity Shimmer Dust (links to silvery pink, but also available in gold) is pure pixie dust, and should definitely give you that Cullen look without veering into total teeny-bopper territory. I would suggest spraying it in the shower, with the curtain closed, unless you just want sparkly carpet and walls. You can finish the look with a layer of Sparklicty Pure on your lids, cheeks, and in your lipgloss, if you're looking for hardcore sparkle. $39 and $19, respectively, Sephora.

Level 3: You want to be confused for a disco ball. Time to break out the stage make up. Ben Nye Glitz It Glitter Gel states:

Like a galaxy of sparkling diamonds, Glitz It combines holographic Opal Ice glitter in an invisible gel that quickly dries to a matte finish. Irresistible effects for face, hair, and body.

That sounds like a winner to me! Again, not one I've tried and I can't find any user reviews, but I trust Ben Nye (all of my personal stage makeup comes from them), and chances are, if it's good enough to show up on stage, it'll work for your Halloween party. If not, it's only $6, so you're not out much. Really, my best suggestion is to make a mad dash to the party store and buy a cheap-o can of spray glitter. That's actually what I'm planning to do for my ghost costume, and it sticks to clothes, too.

Okay, remember a week or so ago when I promised the DuWop Twilight Venom review? Well, here it is. I'm just not sure you're going to like it.

It's easily the worst lipstain I've ever used. Hands down, bar none, and I hate that. The people at DuWop are really nice, too, which makes it all the worse. I ordered mine about a year ago, I guess, and it took forever to come in. I mean, we're talking months. I finally gave up and called DuWop, and they could not have been nicer. It's also a very small company, so the few times I talked with anyone, it was always the same person. Actually, the second time I had to call, they recognized my voice and had my answer before I could even ask the question. I really can't say enough nice things about the company, itself. Unfortunately, I'm really having a hard time coming up with anything nice to say about the lipstain.

Um...the vial looks cool. It's a crimson stain and a clear, glittery liquid, that when shaken together represents the blending of the human and vampire worlds. It also looks like a lava lamp. I like lava lamps, so that's a good thing.

If you put the stain on very carefully, for a few minutes it is the prettiest shade of fuschia. It actually looks like a natural flush, as if you'd been biting on your lips or kissing for a while. It's really lovely.

And that's it. That's all I've got for the good. Now, for the bad.

Even if you put it on with the greatest care and the lightest touch, somehow this stuff manages to defy gravity and pools in the middle of your upper and lower lips, making it look like you've just drunk someone dry. I guess, if you're going for a vamp look, that could be good, but it doesn't work for me. Actually, it also looks like I've been eating a cherry popsicle and just left it between my lips for too long. Again, not a good look.

The glitter doesn't show up. It's a matte stain, and it dries out your lips really badly. It also doesn't plump at all. It does smell like cinnamon, though, which is pleasant.

If you just slap it on straight out the vial, it's practically hot pink, and not crimson, like you would gather from looking at it. You really have to work hard to make this look good.

If you make a mistake, you better have makeup remover on hand, otherwise, it's there forever. If it gets on your fingers, it stays on your fingers. It does not, however, stay on your lips. In two hours, I reapplied four times.

So, if you insist on buying it (it is Twilight, after all), here's how to apply it, so as not to look like a cannabalistic clown:

1) Prep lips by exfoliating and applying a balm (or every flake or crack will be magnified).

2) Apply a clear lipliner to prevent feathering ('cause it will, and badly).

3) Drain as much of the excess product off of the wand as you possibly can.

4) LIGHTLY apply to the outer portion of your lips. It'll fill in the middle on its own.

5) Press your lips together to evenly distribute.

6) Reapply balm after the stain has dried.

Lather, rinse, and repeat as needed. For a darker look, fill in your lips with a coordinating pencil before applying the stain.

Seriously, save yourself the trouble and just get CoverGirl Outlast Lipstain. It's a lot more moisturizing, comes in a magic marker form so you can't screw up, and actually lasts. It'll save you a lot of money, too. Venom is $16. This stuff runs about $7. Beware, though, the biggest customer gripe (mine, too) is that the color on the marker does not match the color inside, so try a tester, if at all possible.

Thus ends the obligatory Twilight post. Please be nice in the comments. Thanks!

The Amazing Technicolor Dream...Dress

Photo by rainbowwinters.com

I remember hypercolor.  I think I was around eight or ten when the tacky tie-dyed shirts were all the rage, and I wanted one so badly.  Mom wouldn't let me get one (she has taste, afterall), so I never got to run around with handprints on my tummy.  Somehow, I don't exactly feel deprived--those were really ugly shirts--but the thought of color changing clothes has always fascinated me.  Blame hypercolor, blame Barbie, blame My Little Pony.  Heck, blame any child's toy from the 80s.  They all did it.  Whatever the case, I still get a kick out of it.

Apparently, I'm not the only one.  Designer Amy Winter has come up with a stunning collection of surprisingly wearable color change clothes.  A ball gown goes from white to technicolor--just add water.  Sweet shifts transform from pink or green to a funky purple when exposed to sunlight.  One really cool club dress features lightning bolts that pulsate in time to surrounding music.  Ladies and gentlemen, we've come a long way from hypercolor.

Well, today, the missing bag o' samples is still out of commission, but instead of a product review, I thought I'd share with you a win-win opportunity.  October may be the month of ghosties and ghoulies, but it's also Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Yes, vampires and werewolves are scary, but they're nowhere near as scary as what 207,090 women will face this year alone.  Not trying to be a downer, just stating the facts.

That said, there are wonderful organizations out there that are working to make this horrible situation a little less scary for those affected by cancer.  One such organization is the Cosmetic Executive Women Foundation’s Cancer & Careers program, a resource for working women battling cancer.  They work with patients, employers, caregivers, and co-workers, providing guidance and information both during and after treatment. 

So, what's the win-win?  Well, DuWop is donating a portion of their Pink Shimmer Lip Venom sales to Cancer & Careers.  Now, I have not tried this particular product (I'll have a review of Twilight Venom soon, though), so I can't vouch for it.  What I can say is that it's a pink shimmery (duh) version of their original Lip Venom, and supposedly plumps lips and leaves them with a soft, reflective, natural-looking flush.  The two reviews on Amazon are both 5-star and very enthusiastic.  $17, DuWop.  Through October 11th, use the code AWARE and save 30%.