Randomness: Naked Basics Eye Look and Jewelmint Mystery Box

Good Lord, it has been a day! I had planned to do a December faves, but that'll have to wait. Instead, I give you TOTAL RANDOMNESS!! I know you're excited...

Anyhoo, to further test out the Urban Decay Naked Basics palette, and how well it coordinates with the larger neutral palettes, I put together this quickie eye look. It works beautifully with a deep berry lip (like Revlon Lip Butter in Red Velvet). Leave it as is to wear to work or shopping; toss a little sparkle on top, and you've got the perfect holiday party look.

Lid: Venus (Naked Basics)
Crease: Naked (Naked 1)
Blending: W.O.S. (NB)
Lower Liner: Naked (N1)
Brow and Inner Corner: Virgin (N1)
Upper Liner: Zero 24/7 Glide-On Pencil
Mascara: Buxom Lash

I also received my Jewelmint Mystery Box!!! About a week and a half ago!!! I'm posting this not to brag or show off, but because the Mystery Box is still available. If you were thinking of purchasing, here is an example of a typical box. Each box is different and pieces are chosen at random, but it'll give you an idea.

From Top: Evening Star Bracelet, Crystal Gazer Necklace (not available on site/discontinued), Lover's Locket Silver, and Calypso Island Earrings (not available on site/discontinued). You might be able to find the discontinued pieces on Ebay, but I can't guarantee that.

I was beyond thrilled, because I'd already been eyeing the Evening Star Bracelet. It, alone, was worth the $29.99 price tag, but there was no promise of that piece. The Mystery Box is a gamble, and one that you won't necessarily win if you're not completely enamored with the majority of the Jewelmint product line--past and present. Sure, the bracelet was a favorite, and the locket has already made it into regular rotation in my daily wardrobe (I'm wearing it today, actually). The other two pieces...well, they've been more challenging.

I did manage to wear the earrings. I paired them with a black sweater over a gold tank, and pinned my hair in a messy bun. The earrings were the main focus of the look, and I received a few compliments on them. They're decent quality, not too heavy, and really made my outfit look "styled", rather than "thrown on". The Crystal Gazer necklace is still in the box, but I think will work well with a low-cut black wrap dress and my leopard flats with pink crystals (much less tacky than they sound, I promise!).

All of the pieces are well-made. The clasp on the bracelet is very secure, which is extremely important given the weight of the piece. It's not light. The locket does open and close, with both a magnetic and button closure. The minimum amount of four pieces came packed with three items in a signature Jewelmint box, and the bracelet in a velvet Jewelmint pouch.

Do I recommend the Mystery Box? Absolutely, as long as you are prepared to possibly end up with pieces you HATE. I have gotten a dud or two in the past, but there are normally enough pieces that I genuinely love, that it all comes out in the wash. I don't get every Mystery Box that comes along, but the ones that I have received have given me items that I never would have purchased on my own, but offer new opportunities to be creative, and maybe even breathe new life into some old wardrobe pieces. 

What To Wear? It's a Mystery!: StyleMint Mystery Bag Reveal

There's a reason I'm an actor and not a model. Well, a few reasons actually. For starters, I'm 5'3". Smurfs pat me on the head. Then there's the fact that this is one of my better pictures. It's fuzzy, and I'm making a weird face. Out of about ten shots, that was the keeper. Jealous?

Now, I don't make a habit of taking pictures of my outfits (though, with results like this, how could I resist?), but I took part in the recent StyleMint Mystery Bag, and thought I'd share with you what I got.

If you haven't heard of the Mystery Bag, here's how it works: Once every couple of month (generally, around a holiday or major fashion event--i.e. Oscars), the Mints (StyleMint, Jewelmint, etc.) will host a Mystery Bag event. Typically, you'll receive at least two items, which makes the $29.99 price well worth it. It's the same as getting two items half off, and I call that a bargain. It's, actually, about the only way I shop the Mints. Please note: this is a true grab bag, so you could end up with anything. You might get two shirts, a shirt and a piece of jewelry, several items, or stuff that you really don't care for. There might be promo codes or gift cards involved, or you might end up re-gifting everything. It's a gamble, but with very few exceptions, I've always been really happy. I normally end up with things I'd never pick out for myself online, but fall in love with in person. To me, it's a great way to update your closet on the cheap, and forces a little creativity in the process. I've rediscovered stuff that I already owned but rarely wore because I needed something to go with a grab bag purchase. (In case you couldn't tell, I recommend the Mystery Bags.)

So...what did I get? Well, I ended up with the amazingly soft Tango Red Albany Tee (and yes, you do get to specify size. I'm a "3" or Medium/Large because they tend to need layering). It's a bright orangey red that was already one of my favorite colors. I also scored this surprisingly well-made tote bag. I say surprisingly because it's very lightweight, but durable. This is going to be one of my Summer staples, I can tell. I'm not a fan of having the logo stamped across the front, but I do love the zippered pocket, which is perfect for keeping my cell and keys from swimming around with all my other junk.

Plus, since part of the fun of the Mystery Bag is figuring out how to incorporate the new pieces with what you already own, I thought it'd be fun to work in items from other Mystery Bags. You can't tell in the fuzz-ball picture, so I Polyvored (is that a word? Is now!) it all out for you below. I accessorized with JewelMint's Zoe Bracelet and Steampunk (no, they're not, but good try) Earrings. Neither of those items were on my Favorites list, but now that I have them, I wear them all the time! Who knew?

Anyway, I layered the shirt over an Old Navy cami, and tossed on jeans and some old Mossimo wedges from Target. To finish the look, I sprayed my hair with Bumble & Bumble Surf Spray for texture, and wove it into a messy side braid. For my makeup, I focused on flawless (ha!) skin and kept color natural and minimal. I love this look, and can't wait for the next Mystery Bag offer to appear in my inbox!

What do you think? Leave your comments below, and be sure to follow me on Polyvore!



StyleMint Albany T-Shirt by adorablenapalm featuring a victoria secret lip gloss

Filmmaker Fashion: The Q&A

Last night, Thomas, our friend Soren, and I were guest speakers at the local university's Communication Day. The school screened The Night Shift, and we gave a short Q&A afterwards. It was a lot of fun, and a real joy to be a part of.

Of course, it was also a chance for all of us to get to play fancy-schmancy filmmaker and dress up! This is not the exact outfit I wore last night, but it's as close as I could get on my new Polyvore account (follow me! Link's below), since everything came directly out of my closet, and a few things were a few years old. Anyway, let's play with this for a bit. Oh--and if you want to buy any of this stuff, Polyvore was nice enough to link to what's still available for me. (I think I'm going to like this thing.)

Okay, first up, the henley tank isn't the one I wore last night. That would be this one, that I blogged about a million years ago. Mine isn't available in stores anymore, but this one is really, really close.

The earrings are the Rachel Earrings from JewelMint. Mine are actually the Rachel Rose Earrings, which have a very muted pink stone and a silver finish. You might be able to score some on Ebay, but that's about the only way. Sorry.

I finally got my Naked 2 palette!! No, I don't have a Naked "1", but that's okay. I'm absolutely in love with this palette, so expect a full review sometime in the very near future. I used Chopper, Snakebite, and Bootycall last night, with the Naked Lip Junkie, in case you were wondering. And no, I don't have any pictures. Someone at the school took one, but I don't have a copy. And I'm sad. Really, really sad.

I do actually own this necklace. You might remember a post about it from forever ago, where I talked about how it made me think of my dear little Herbie. I fell pretty darn hard for this piece before Halloween, and watched it on Open Sky for ages. It finally went on sale cheap enough that I could justify the purchase, and I don't think I've taken it off, yet.

Sadly, this bracelet is another that you'll have to search for on Ebay. It's the Black Swan Cuff from JewelMint, and one of my all-time favorite pieces from them. Seriously, try to find this one. It's worth the trouble. Good luck! I'm rooting for you!

If you want a good pair of jeans, go to DressBarn. I know, I know, I didn't expect that, either. Look for the ANGELS line. They're affordable ($39.99), cute as pie, have a good amount of stretch, suck in my stomach and make my butt look good. These are my Cinderella jeans.

Lastly, these are not my shoes. I did wear some pewter Guess strappy platforms, but they came from Ross, and I've had them for a while. These are extremely similar, even if they are more than twice what I paid for mine.

I know this is a little different from the norm, but I hope you enjoyed this post. Let me know in the comments. Seriously, though, if you did like this, follow me on Polyvore, and I'll try to do more with it in the future.

Screening and Q&A Inspired by adorablenapalm featuring printed tank tops

Daytrip printed tank top
$25 - buckle.com

Women's & Misses Clothing And Apparel At Dressbarn
dressbarn.com

GUESS t strap high heels
$66 - heels.com

Urban Decay shimmer eyeshadow
$50 - sephora.com

Soixante Neuf BABY SILVER SKULL NECKLACE in 14K GF
$113 - stefanibags.com

Chalk One Up For DIY Hair Color

This is brilliant.

My friend, Genna, sent this to me, and I am dying to try it out. Have you ever had something really cool to go to, like a concert or party, and wanted to try some funky colors in your hair? Well, you could try to track down some faux pieces, or (gawdluvya) ACTUALLY dye your own hair...or you could try chalking.


Photo Credit: kandeej.com

Yes, it's exactly what it sounds like. You use chalk to color your hair. Basically, you spray your hair with water, then rub non-oil-based chalk onto the strands. Set the color with a curling iron or flat iron. The color will wash out the next time you shampoo. Again, I haven't tried this, but if anyone has and wants to share pictures or experiences, let me know in the comments.

Also....

WHILE I WAS OUT

Okay, so I haven't really gone anywhere. Still...I'm never really all here...

My latest blog post is up at Paranormal Pop Culture. If you've ever been curious about the Jersey Devil or indie filmmaking, check it out. It's fun. :)

I've been a big fan of Neutrogena makeup remover wipes for some time now. However, I've recently switched to Olay Total Effects wipes. Look for a review sometime in the near future. Also, I'm still on the hunt for one more Real Techniques brush, then I can review the set. Unfortunately, we only have one Ulta in town, and I don't feel like paying shipping for one. flipping. brush.

Lastly, I received some promo codes from the Mints (JewelMint, ShoeMint, etc). If you are looking to join any of those groups--note: this is for first-time purchases only--leave me a message in the comments. I may be able to hook you up with a discount. Of course, this is while supplies last, only.

Frugal Friday: This Is How My Mind Works

Some random observations from today:

Someone is always getting married on the Young & the Restless. Seriously. About once a week (in the 30 minutes, or so, that I catch most days before I go to work), someone will either announce an engagement, find themselves in a forced/arranged/sham marriage, get word that their ex is betrothed to their enemy and will be their kid's step-parent (whoa), or--crazy as it sounds--actually walk down the aisle. Of course, then someone will have to try to stop the ceremony by objecting, shooting someone, or having the bride or groom arrested. I'm telling you, that is one heckuva town. Vegas never had it so interesting.

Weddings make me think of cake. Now I want cake. There's a cupcake shop on the corner near my new house. I will never lose this weight. Oh well.

You don't so much clean an unused bathtub as you dust it. In some ways, I find that to be more difficult. Not only that, do you have any idea how galling it is to exert so much effort cleaning something that was never used? Well, I take that back. It was used once as a crime scene for a friend's student film, but then the only stuff that went into it was fake blood, and that was made with dishwashing detergent; so, in effect, the only thing that's ever been in that tub was soap...and I still had to clean it. That's just irritating.

Oh! There's a gym nextdoor to the cupcake shop! I could join the gym, and then work off whatever calories were in the cup--oh, I can't even get through that sentence. The shop is walking distance from the house, though. I could just walk to and from the cupcake-y goodness, and that wouldn't be so bad. Yeah! That's a plan!

You should never lose hope. Just because you step up to the Plinko game of life with only two chips, and the first one lands on $0, you shouldn't give up. It only takes one chip to hit $10,000. Your chip could be that one.

Forget the cupcakes! I don't need them! I will lose this weight! I will be strong! Now...what can I do about that pesky Krispy Kreme down the street? Sigh...

And now, for this week's deals:

E.L.F.: Get an 8-piece set (plus travel case) for $2 with any $20 online purchase. Just add the Sweetheart Collection set to your cart, along with $20 worth of merchandise, and enter code SWEET at checkout to get your discount. Offer valid until 1/30/12.

StyleMint: Existing members who buy any two Ts today will receive a free Cupid's Kit, which includes one best-selling JewelMint piece, a seamless cami, and either a lip stain or face cream. No code necessary.

JewelMint: Purchase any JewelMint piece today and receive the Take a Bow Ring for free with code BOWRING.

Have a great weekend, guys! (Now, go get your cupcake on!)

Frugal Friday: Holiday Round-Up

Happy Last Friday of 2011!!! Let's get to this, shall we?

Victoria's Secret: The semi-annual sale is going on right now, with some fantastic deals and free shipping on online orders over $50 with the code SHIP50. Also, if you're a Facebook fan, you can print out an instore only coupon for a free NYE panty with any purchase today only!! Dec. 30th!! Get on that now, 'cause it's pretty darn cute.

E.L.F.: You have a few offers to choose from right now, actually. You can get a free mini-makeup collection with any order over $10 with code HOLIDAY thru Dec. 31st (tomorrow), and SHIP25 will get you free shipping on orders over $25 thru Jan. 1st. This one's a little complicated, but if you spend $20.12, you can add an 11-piece Studio Brush set plus case for $2.12 with code 2012. That one is good until Jan. 2nd. None of these can be combined, so choose wisely.

Busted Tees: It's Grab Bag time!! Thirty bucks gets you four random shirts. Granted, you don't get to pick 'em, but at $8 and change per shirt, it's still a really good deal. **P.S. If you find an Easter Egg and get a code, WRITE IT DOWN!! I accidentally clicked my mouse before I had a chance to, and it disappeared, never to return. I tried to remember it, but one letter/number escaped me. Busted, it would be nice if that code automatically made it to my cart next time. Just sayin'.

Sephora: Extra 20% off ALL sale items. Use code EXTRA thru Jan. 3rd. Good only online, and cannot be combined with other offers.

StyleMint: Extra 30% off any tee with code TLOW30. One tee per transaction, but an unlimited number of transactions is allowed. Also, buy any cashmere sweater and receive two free JewelMint pieces (Parisian Dream earrings and Smooth Sailing necklace). No promo code needed, and none allowed on cashmere pieces.

Old Navy: Take an extra 15% off your entire order, including sale items (!) with code ONEXTRA15. Offer good online only, and only thru Jan. 2nd. Considering clearance items are going for 50% off, this is a fantastic deal.

Of course, there are tons of other sales going on this weekend, but this should help out with promo codes and special deals. Have a wonderful New Year, and remember to eat your peas, cabbage, and pork! We need all the luck, money, and health we can get in 2012!!

Challenge!: Christmas Day Chic

It's Christmas!! In six days!! So, almost, but not quite!!

What the bleep am I going to wear?

Figuring out what to wear Christmas morning is one of my biggest styling challenges of the year. I mean, sure, I'll open presents under my tree in my pajamas, but then we have to make the rounds to visit parents and in-laws, and all that jazz, and I really think the police department would frown on me tooling around town in my jammies. They're really cute jammies, but still...

Now, I realize this is family, and they don't care what I wear. I could show up in my jam-jams and no one would bat an eye, but Christmas is a highly photographed day around my family, and I have enough embarrassing photos already hanging on Mom's walls, thank you very much. I'd like to look cute. Casual, comfy, and cute.

However...I'm singing Midnight Mass the night before (morning of?), and my church actually has Midnight Mass at *gasp* midnight! That puts me getting into bed somewhere around 2:30 or 3:00 in the a.m. When I get up in the morning, the last thing I want to do is worry about what I'm going to wear, or have to fuss with a ton of makeup. I just want to throw something on, cover up my face enough to not scare small children, and chug my low-fat Frappuccino in peace. This amount of sleepwalking takes planning.

I am sure I'm not the only person in this kind of predicament. Even if you get a normal amount of sleep Christmas Eve, there's a certain amount of chaos on Christmas Morning, and that can make getting ready for the day a real pain in the rear. To help us all out, I'm bringing back the Challenge(!) to put together an effortlessly chic look for Christmas Day. A lot of this stuff is actually in my closet, so if you see me (or pictures of me) on the 25th, you can play Eye Spy with my ensemble. Merry Christmas.

Photo Credit: Target

The top I've chosen (that I don't have, but really want) is from Target, and runs $22.99. It says it's not sold in stores, but it totally is because I've seen it. If you want one, check out your local Target, because there is a very good chance it could be there. This is a slim-fit, sequin-covered sweatshirt with a neck wide enough to almost fall off the shoulder. You'd think the sequins would be tacky (Lord knows, I did, at first), but it's positively precious on, and adds a festive sparkle to an otherwise ordinary and overly casual piece of clothing. Also available in black, emerald, and oatmeal (my favorite).

Photo Credit: Kaboodle

These skinny jeans are a dark indigo wash and come from City Streets (J.C.Penney, $19.99--regular $38.00). I've not tried these, but I have their jeggings in two washes and absolutely adore them.

Photo Credit: Sears

A pair of butt-kickin' motorcycle boots add an edgy style to an comfy-cozy outfit, with the added benefit of removing any worry over matching socks. Going on three to four hours of sleep, that's a pretty big plus. (Sears, $29.99--regular $89.99)

Photo Credit (Above Right and Left): JewelMint

The quickest way to look like you actually put thought and effort into looking nice is to accessorize. Going off the biker boots, I chose two pieces from JewelMint to easily kick this outfit up a notch. I'm in love with these Screen Siren earrings, right now. They're two-inch danglers with amethyst-colored crystals and hematite accents. They look amazing with both a slicked back ponytail or free-flowing waves, so anything goes. They also add a touch of color, and sparkle like no one's business. I paired the baubles with the incredible Black Swan bracelet. I can't wear this without people asking me where I got it. The dark metal picks up the hematite in the earrings, and the industrial design is as rock star as it gets. (JewelMint, $29.99 each)

My Please-God-Don't-Make-Me-Think-This-Morning makeup is a toned-down version of the Adele-inspired tutorial from the lovely ladies at Pixiwoo. (Seriously, if you haven't checked them out, you need to drop what you're doing and subscribe to their youtube channel immediately. And no, that's not hyperbole. I really, truly mean it. They're amazing, and I have learned so much from them lately.) I've done this look a few times now, and it's genius. There's nothing to it. I just go a little easier on the liner and brows, and it's a very appropriate look for any occasion. It's also made me remember how much I love Woodwinked eyeshadow from MAC (MacCosmetics.com, $15.00).

I'm embedding the tutorial here. If you want to try this look, but don't have a ton of Chanel lying around the house, I'm adding a list of the swaps I've made that worked well. Feel free to try your own swaps, and if they work out, help a girl out and please share them in the comments.

Foundation: CoverGirl NatureLuxe
Concealer: Benefit Boi-ing
Eye Primer: Urban Decay Primer Potion in Sin
Eye Shadow: Stila in Kitten
Eye Shadow: MAC in Woodwinked
Eye Shadow: Stila in Americano
Liner: Smashbox Limitless Liquid Liner Pen in Jet Black
Mascara: Benefit Bad Gal Lash
Brows: E.L.F. Studio Eyebrow Kit in Medium
Bronzer: Benefit Hoola
Powder: Urban Decay Razor Sharp Ultra Definition Finishing Powder
Blush: NARS Blush in Orgasm
Lips: Urban Decay Lip Junkie Lip Gloss in Naked (not as pink as the tutorial, but just as lovely.)

I know, this sounds like it would take forever, but it's quick and easy, and most of the products were already on my counter. The Stila eyeshadows are in a palette ($14 for three shades!), and the bronzer and mascara came in a sampler that also included a foundation for $12. Both sets are available at Sephora.

Challenge completed!

Gift Guide: The New Mommy

For a couple of years there, I couldn't throw a stick without hitting a bride (not that I've ever run into a bride I'd like to beat with a stick, and let's stay focused, shall we?). My guest room closet has become a sort of shrine (or sepulcher) to bridesmaid dresses past, with dust-covered satin and chiffon shrouding layers of forgotten tulle and beading. Miss Haversham would feel right at home, I'll tell you that.

However, these days, the receptions and rice have segued into ultrasounds and storks as, two-by-two, all my friends change their Facebook statuses to, "We're Expecting!!" and their names to "Mommy" and "Daddy". This is a brave new world I'm entering into, and I have no idea how to handle the territory.

I have a feeling that most of you in my age bracket (25-35) are finding yourselves buying for new or soon-to-be mommies this Christmas. Am I right? One thing I have noticed is that Mommy tends to be lost in the shuffle. Everyone wants to see the newborn baby or feel Mom's tummy for a kick, and folks bring over tons of presents for the little angel. Dads get slaps on the back and congratulations, but are generally treated about the same as usual. It's just poor Mom (you know, the one doing all the work and wrecking her figure) who tends to be overlooked. This irritates me. I know I'm totally guilty of it, myself, but I'm going to work on that.

With this resolution, I give you the Gift Guide for the new/soon-to-be Mommy. These are specifically for Mommy as a woman, an individual, and a cherished part of your life. There is more to Mommy than just being "Mommy". Ask your own Mom, and I bet she'll agree.

She is Mommy. Hear her roar.

Photo Credit: Sephora

First off, hormones going crazy = skin going crazy. Give Mom a little TLC with this set from Philosophy. Purity face cleanser and Hope in a Jar moisturizer to balance things out, and Pure Grace shower gel and body lotion for a light fragrance that's not too strong for baby. $30, Sephora.

Photo Credit: diaperbags.com

Okay, technically this is for baby, but Mom's the one who has to carry it around. If you're going to have a diaper bag, you might as well have one with a little style. This is for the Mom who pushes the stroller while wearing Manolo's. Incredibly chic, and roomy enough for everything li'l bit could possible require. A little pricey, but well worth it for all the use it'll get. $127.98, diaperbags.com.

Lastly, Mom may be a mom, but she's still a woman and could probably use a little pick-me-up after all those sleepless nights (pre- and post-baby). Stuff her stocking with a gift certificate to JewelMint, so she can pick out just the right piece of jewelry to help her get back her sparkle. $29.99-$179.94, jewelmint.com.

Frugal Fridays: Mobile Edition!

I am now blogging from my phone. This should prove interesting, to say the least. For instance, autocorrect changed blogging to clogging ...yikes.

Anyhoo, I have some fab deals for you today!

From 11:11 this morning, for 11 hours and 11 minutes, e.l.f. will ship any order over $11.11 for $1.11. The holiday collection this year is called 24kt, and features pretty gold packaging and tools. I highly recommend checking it out.

Now through Monday, Fredericks of Hollywood has 50% off all clearance and 20% off all corsets. There are some really cute party dresses (among other things) at ridiculously low prices right now.

Lastly, Jewelmint has started a daily deal that can be found in their blog. Today's is a matching ring, earring, and bracelet set for 30% off with the code WONDER30.

Happy Veteran's Day!! Take a minute today to hug, thank, or give a thought to those who risk everything for our freedom. Have a great weekend!

Frugal Fridays, Part the Second

Hey guys and gals! It's Friday, and time for our newest feature (since none of the old ones really stuck): Frugal Fridays!!

Today, I bring you a neat little discount gimmick from JewelMint. As you may recall, JewelMint is a jewelry-of-the-month club with pretty pieces at pretty decent prices. Each piece costs one credit, and credits are $29.99 each.

Now, JewelMint has what they call Facebook Fridays. Basically, you "like" JewelMint on Facebook, and that unlocks a special deal for you. Now, there's no telling exactly what time each Friday the deal will be posted, but if you're already signed up for JewelMint, they'll send you an email reminder that you can click right through.

That's it for this week! If any of you hear of a good deal, please share with the rest of the class. You can leave it in the comments, or post it on the Adorable Napalm Facebook page.

Wow, It Sure Has Been a While

Alrighty, folks! Let's end this week with some updates:

Jewelmint

The Aurum Necklace
Photo Credit: Jewelmint

A few days ago, I posted about a new jewelry-o'-the-month club, Jewelmint. Well, I bit the bullet and joined, mostly just to see if it was really all it claimed to be. Just so you know, it is. The day after I joined, the site emailed a 50% off coupon to me. This, by the way, is the only non-purchase related email they've sent, so I'm not getting spammed multiple times daily (you hear that, e.l.f.?). There was a piece that I was eyeing, so last Thursday, I used my coupon and ordered the Aurum necklace, a multi-strand gold necklace with two little gold nugget accents. My expectations were fairly low, as I've mail-ordered jewelry before, and it's never what the picture leads you to believe.

Fast forward to Tuesday. A beautifully packaged parcel arrived in the mail from Jewelmint--four whole days before it was supposed to!--containing an even lovelier, well-made, ready for gifting jewelry box. I opened the box to find a printed placard bearing the piece's description (straight off the website, but still a nice touch), a protective piece of heavy-duty foam, and an absolutely gorgeous necklace. As I mentioned earlier, mail-order jewelry has never been what the picture led me to expect, and this was no exception; this necklace was better than I expected.

The clasp is slightly larger than usual, so I can actually take the necklace on and off without any outside help. It's also constructed well enough that I don't worry about it opening unexpectedly, or breaking while I'm trying to manipulate it. The necklace itself is gold-plated, which keep it from looking like painted metal (you hear that, Forever 21?). I wore this with a low-cut tank top, and the overall look was very sexy. The next day, I paired it with a navy and white striped top for a nautical look. Today, I'm sporting the chains with a white tee and jeans. Basically, it works with everything, and I may never take it off.

As for the website, I've had zero trouble managing my account or looking at pieces. The ordering process was simple, and tracking info was emailed to me and placed in my "jewelry box" (where they stash info about all the pieces you've purchased). Shipping was quicker than expected, and I'm thrilled with my purchase. Should I choose to order next month, I can, or I can skip by simply pressing a button.

Thus far, Jewelmint has exceeded my expectations. Bottom line, it's an inexpensive, easy to manage way to expand your jewelry wardrobe. The pieces are well-crafted and look high-end. Packaging is exquisite, and eliminates much of the need for gift wrap.

Final Verdict: I'm in love, and going so far as to post the link on Facebook. I never do that. Give it a shot. 10 out of 10. 

Jergens

I'm at the end of Week 2 using Jergens Skin Firming Daily Toning Moisturizer, and I'm still noticing subtle improvements. I'm still not where I'd like to be, smoothness-wise, but the results I have seen keep me optimistic.

Temporary Verdict: Still working, and it ain't over till the fat lady...well, isn't. 8.5 out of 10.

Fekkai

Wow. Boy, am I behind. Way back in August, I tried a sample of Frederic Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream (and misspelled it, I'm sorry), with the promise of a follow-up after continued use. As I can't seem to find the follow-up, I'm going to assume I never wrote one. Oops. In my defense, I had a movie in post-production, a CD in production, a husband looking for a job, and...oh, who am I kidding? I forgot. Plain and simple. I apologize.

So, better late than never, here you go:

If you recall (or go back and re-read), I was less than thrilled with the product. It smelled odd, and while my hair did end up shiny and soft, I wasn't sure how much of that was the cream and how much was due to my new shampoo and conditioner.

Zip ahead to now. I've been using that shampoo and conditioner religiously since then, and my hair loves them. That said, around here, we don't need a groundhog to tell us when Spring is coming. People just wait for my hair to frizz up, then they know it's okay to start planting their gardens. I am also in desperate need of a hair cut and color, so I needed a product that would battle the frizzies and add a healthy dose of shine to punch up the color.

Therefore, knowing what my hair looks and feels like with that shampoo/conditioner combo alone, I had my control group, and only needed to toss in a variable (the glossing cream) to perform a truly scientific experiment.

Process: I washed my hair, conditioned it, added in about two pea-sized amounts (my hair is really, really long, right now), combed, and blow-dried. Repeated the process two days later, then again two days after that. Did not notice the odd smell this time.

Results: My hair was significantly smoother and softer, with some added shine. Not "Brilliant Glossing" shine, but light did reflect. The first time, I added too much to the front of my hair and it looked greasy, but I learned from the experience and now concentrate the product on the ends. The frizziness was greatly reduced, though now I can really tell how badly I need a haircut. Overall, styling has improved, both in ease and in finished look.

Final Verdict: I bought a trial size for $9 at Sephora. I'm not calling this a wonder-product, but it should definitely make Spring and Summer humidity a little less scary. 7 out of 10.