A Buyer's Guide To the Urban Decay Naked Palette Collection

Not long ago, a friend of mine posted on her Facebook page that she couldn't understand all the hype over the Urban Decay Naked palettes. After all, it's just eye shadow, right?

Personally, I get it. I'm a neutral girl to begin with, and I also don't have a whole heckuva lot of time to spend getting ready in the mornings. It's nice--nay, essential--to have something I can grab, knowing that I'll be able to pick a color, slap it on my eyes, and not have to deal with pigmentation or blending issues. Urban Decay (who is not paying me to write this, and has no idea I even exist) makes some of the best shadows around, so a palette filled with twelve coordinating shades is kind of a god-send for me. Key words: "for me". Everyone's tastes and needs are unique. Some people crave zillions of bright colors; others may be good with a flesh-toned single. Me? I prefer these 40 neutrals.

If you're reading this, you're probably considering picking up a Naked palette. Here, I hope to share with you everything you need to know to decide which one(s) will be right for you. Please note: I'm not going into detail over every single shade in each palette. They will be touched on, but odds are, the inclusion or exclusion of one shade isn't going to make or break your decision. You know, generally speaking. All descriptions and recommendations are my own, and may or may not differ from those found elsewhere.

Alrighty, then. Let's start with the Basics.

Packaging: Hard plastic with a rubberized finish and raised logo. Slightly larger than a credit card. Very secure closure. Full-length, usable mirror on the inside lid.

Extras: None.

Shades: Six full-sized shadows. Five matte, one satin. Pigmentation ranges from fair to excellent, with the darker shades being best. Easily blendable. Could be considered slightly powdery.

Versatility: Blending, highlighting, liner, brows. Can create a limited number of looks. Works best in conjunction with other palettes.

Swatches: For reference, I'm an NW15 in MAC, and around a 2.0 in Urban Decay. And yes, that is my leg, and yes, my lighting does kind of suck. I have work with what I've got, sometimes. Believe it or not, colors are actually very close to true to life.

Top Row, L-R: Venus, Foxy, W.O.S. Bottom Row, L-R: Naked 2, Faint, Crave 

Repeats: Four shades are exclusive to this palette. Foxy is also found in Naked 2 and the permanent range. W.O.S. was also available in some build-your-own palettes, but is not in the permanent collection.

Recommended For: All skin tones. Fair to medium may benefit most.

Naked

Packaging: Sturdy cardboard with velveteen covering. Embossed logo. Magnetic closure. Small, high quality mirror on the inside lid.

Extras: Eyeshadow brush and mini Primer Potion (at time of purchase).

Shades: Twelve full-sized shadows. Two matte, one satin, six shimmer, three glitter. Pigmentation generally excellent, with the exception of Naked, which has good pigmentation. Easily blendable. Generally creamy. Moderate fall-out on glitter shades. Overall warm tone.

Versatility:  Blending, highlighting, liner. Possibly brow fill. Evening and heavier daytime looks, with limited lighter looks possible.

Swatches:


Top Row, L-R: Virgin, Sin, Naked, Sidecar, Buck, Half Baked. Bottom Row, L-R: Smog, Darkhorse, Toasted, Hustle, Creep, Gunmetal.

 Repeats: Smog and Sin are in the Ammo palette. Half Baked is in Naked 2. Only Sidecar, Hustle, and Creep are not part of the permanent line.

Recommended For: Warmer and neutral medium to deep skin tones. Fair skin tones may find the majority of the colors require a very light hand.

Naked 2

Packaging: Metal with raised logo. Secure closure. Usable mirror fills the inner lid.

Extras: Double-ended eye shadow brush and mini Lip Junkie lip gloss in Naked (at time of purchase).

Shades: Twelve full-sized eye shadows. Three matte, one satin, two glitter, six shimmer. Pigmentation ranging from very good to excellent, with the exceptions of Foxy, which has good pigmentation. Easily blendable, though Tease can apply somewhat patchy. Generally creamy texture. Moderate fallout on glitter shades. Overall cool tone.

Versatility: Blending, highlighting, liner. Best for lighter to medium daytime looks, with some evening looks possible.  

Swatches:

Top Row, L-R: Foxy, Half Baked, Bootycall, Chopper, Tease, Snakebite. Bottom Row, L-R: Suspect, Pistol, Verve, YDK, Busted, Blackout.

Repeats: Foxy is in the Basics pallete. Chopper is in the Ammo palette. All but Busted, Snakebite, and Bootycall are in the permanent line.

Recommended For: Cooler and neutral skin tones. Fair to medium skin tones may benefit most, but could work for deeper tones.

Naked 3

Packaging: Metal with raised logo. Secure closure. Usable mirror fills the inside lid.

Extras: Double-ended eye shadow brush and sample blister packs for the Primer Potion line.

Shades: Twelve full-sized shadows. Three matte, three glitter, one satin, five shimmer. Pigmentation generally very good to excellent, with Strange ranking as fair, and Dust acting more as a glitter topcoat. Easily blendable, generally creamy. Moderate to heavy fallout on glitter shades (particularly Dust). Overall rosy tone.

Versatility: Blending, liner. Best for glowy, natural daytime looks, with some evening looks possible.

Swatches:

Top Row, L-R: Strange, Dust, Burnout, Limit, Buzz, Trick. Bottom Row, L-R: Nooner, Liar, Factory, Mugshot, Darkside, Blackheart.

Repeats: None. All are new shades, exclusive to this palette.

Recommended For: Warm, Cool, or Neutral. Fair skin tones may benefit most, but also recommended for medium. Deeper tones may be able to make it work.

Good luck getting Naked!

The Perfect Palette!

Happy New Year!! To start things off on just the right foot, here's a tag that no one asked me to do!! YAY!!!

Actually, I read a blog that tagged all of its readers, so there you go. I thought this would be a really fun post to do in January, since it's, more or less, a look at what products we've all used and loved (or hated) over the past year. Some of my answers surprised me, while others were no-brainers. I hope you have fun with this post, and let me know if you agree or disagree with me in the comments.

And away we go!!!

Best Packaging
M.A.C. 2004 Limited Edition 6-Eyes Crystal Palette

Obviously, I can't still use this, since the shadows are a decade old and smell apalling. Still, this is, by far, the prettiest packaging of any palette I have owned, before or since. It's a small compact, about the size of a credit card, and the thickness of an E.L.F. Custom Color compact. The casing is lavender metal, with the MAC logo inlaid in rhinestones. Inside, a mirror takes up the top, and a decently usable brush rounds the bottom portion, where the shadows, themselves, are located. A velveteen sleeve was included, to protect the compact when not in use. I freaking love this thing. Currently, I'm trying to figure out how to remove the eyeshadows so, maybe, I can use the case for something else. Anything else. Heck, I might toss my business cards in it.

Best Color Payoff
Urban Decay Naked 1

These shadows are so saturated with pigment that they're almost difficult to apply, but they're definitely worth the extra effort! During the Summer, these bronze and gold shades are simply stunning.

Most Versatile
Urban Decay Naked 2
NARS Guy Bourdin Cheek Palette

This was a tie. For eyes, in my opinion, you can't beat Naked 2. The range easily goes from daytime casual to dramatic evening. Bootycall and Tease make for a simple, sophisticated nude eye, while Verve and Pistol are two of the most gorgeous silvery taupes. For an easy one-color eye, Snakebite is a go-to. Really, I can't say enough good about this palette.

That said, I've also found that my NARS blush palette has become a nearly irreplaceable staple. It contains four blush colors that range from neutral peachy-pink to what I can only describe as a hothouse rose. In addition, there's a sheer, yet buildable bronzer, and a universally-flattering, subtle highlighter. This was limited edition, but you may still be able to get your hands on one, and I definitely recommend it.

Best for Traveling
Stila Not So Nude

Toss in a tinted moisturizer, bronzer, and mascara, and this is really all you need for a weekend. The thin, booklet-esque palette opens to reveal a (not so useful, sadly) mirror on one side, and a plethora of products on the other. Six neutral shadows range from matte baby pink to shimmering deep grape. Below those, you find a natural-flush cream blush/shadow/lippie, as well as Stila's famous Kitten highlighter.

Biggest Regret
E.L.F. 22-Color

This was a bust, and I really hate that. There just isn't one single redeeming quality. The packaging is bulky and unattractive. The shadow colors are weak, kind of ugly, and don't really go well together. The lip colors are chalky, and the blushes are so tiny as to be unusable...I think you get the point. It's just a miss.

Best Color Names
Urban Decay Glinda

Tornado, Aura, Magic, Illusion, Oz, and South. If you're a Wizard of Oz fan, like myself, then you've probably already squeed a little over this palette. The colors are beyond gorgeous (have you seen South? Holy Moly!), but there's just something, erm, magical about putting Magic on your eyes.

Least Used
Too Faced Spun Sugar Glamour To Go

I should use this more. It's a really beautiful palette. The thing is, I bought this for travel, but the sugary nature of the shadows doesn't really lend itself to that. The shadows are lovely as toppers, but aren't very effective on their own. I do, however, use the gold highlighter on a regular basis. That thing is spectacular!

Most Used
Urban Decay Naked Basics

This is one that caused me to eat a little crow. When this palette came out, I didn't see the need for it. The colors looked boring and easily duped. Shortly after, I found myself with a gift card or discount or something (I don't remember what) that made the palette pretty much free, so I picked it up. I don't think I've put it down since. Foxy and W.O.S. are fantastic blending colors for my fair skin, and Naked 2 is the best crease color I've ever used. Hands down. Faint fills in my brows, and Crave makes a fabulous liner. I don't use Venus very much, but five out of six ain't bad. I finally took this out of my palette drawer and stuck it in my countertop organizer.

Most Loved
Urban Decay Naked 3

This probably isn't a fair category. I just got the Naked 3, and I'm sure part of my current obsession with it is due to it being the shiny new toy under the Christmas tree. That said, I don't see myself shelving it anytime soon. The rose-gold shades are perfect with my skintone, and the color range puts its versatility on par with the Naked 2. It's a truly remarkable product, and one that can picture using regularly for a very long time.

Desert Island
NYX Crimson Amulet

What? Not an Urban Decay palette? The heck, you say! Yeah, it surprised me, too. Still, were I stuck on an island (obviously, with other inhabitants and a well-stocked, comfy hotel) with no other makeup options, save for one palette and some sunscreen, this one would take care of everything. Decent shadows in an array of colors and finishes? Check! Several pretty blushes? Check! Glowy highlighter? Check! Lippies? Check! There was even a liner and eye primer included when I bought it, but those went the way of the dodo ages ago. This was another limited edition, but most of NYX's palettes are just as versatile, and they're all high-quality for a low price point.

Well, that does it for this tag, so now, I tag all of you! Go forth! Have a lovely new year, y'all.

FINALLY! The Best of 2012!

Well, it only took me till half-way through January, but I finally got my Best of 2012 list together. I feel a sense of accomplishment (and if you get through this monster of a post, you should, too). These are not necessarily my favorites for the year, but are my most used products of the year. In most cases, they are my favorites. In others, I've notated my actual favorite, as well. I hope this helps some of you. If you have favorites of your own, please list them in the comments! I'd love to read them.

Okay, I'm tired now. Have fun, and good luck.

Seriously, this is crazy long. Go get a snack or something first.

Really. I'll wait.

Okay, here we go!

SKIN PREP:

Face Wash
Olay Skin Smoothing Cream Scrub
I've been really happy with this scrub. It came highly recommended from Total Beauty members, and has proven to be a very gently, effective scrub. It leaves skin feeling clean, soft, and moisturized. I ran out of it this morning, and am planning to repurchase after I give the Simple scrub a chance to wow me (and it's not going well).

Face Wipes
Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes
I'll be honest, Neutrogena wipes remove makeup more effectively, and I used them for years without a qualm. Somewhere along the way, the formula must have changed because they started to leave a greasy film on my face, and the smell became unbearable. I tried to keep it up for a few packs, but had to change to something else. These Simple wipes smell fresh, leave my skin feeling clean and not greasy, and do a really good job at removing makeup. Waterproof mascara is still a bit of a challenge, but I can deal with that to not look like a oil slick.

Makeup Remover
Sephora Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover
This works, doesn't irritate, and is, surprisingly, cheaper than a lot of drugstore makeup removers. If you need something small to hit your $25 or $50 order goal (for freebies or free shipping), this is a good choice.

Moisturizer
Olay Total Effects 7
I used this stuff for a couple of years, and liked it a lot. I'm only 32, so I don't know how well the anti-aging benefits worked, but they sure couldn't have hurt. My skin felt hydrated and supple, and makeup applied well on top. It's a darn good moisturizer.

*Clean and Clear Dual Action Skin Moisturizer
When Thomas and I went to Disney World this past October, I'd run out of my Olay and was using a sample of Ole Henriksen Truth Serum (awesome). I'd forgotten how dry car rides can leave your skin, and the sample wasn't cutting it for either of us, so we ran to Walgreen's to grab...something cheap. This was only a few dollars, and was supposedly good for breakouts, too. Turns out, it worked even better than I'd hoped, and I've been using it ever since. The Olay is fantastic, but for the money, you can't beat this. I use it on my actors, too, when I'm doing their makeup. It hydrates, clears up pimples, and feels fresh and minty.

Eye Cream
SUPER By Perricone Eye Brightening Melon
You know what, I'm not even going to bore you with a description. It's discontinued, and I'm sad. It was awesome in a jar, and I feel I may shed a tear when the last dregs are used up. If you can find this, BUY THIS.

Lip Treatment
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment
I have used this every morning and every night since June, and I've noticed a dramatic reduction in the frequency of very chapped lips. I've used other products in the past to heal chapping, but this is the first thing I've tried that seems to actually prevent occurrences. Plus, it smells like oranges and tastes like sugar.

Facial Treatment
GlamGlow Mud Mask
This ugly, chunky, green, leaf-filled clay paste is pure magic. Blackheads? Gone! Dullness? Not anymore! This leaves you with tighter, clearer, brighter, HD-ready skin for up to three days after just one use. Even my husband loves this stuff. Just don't buy retail. It's incredibly expensive. I got ours through Amazon (proper...with free shipping) for a significantly more reasonable price. Just be careful and use a trusted seller.

Tooth Whitener
Colgate Optic White Toothpaste
I'm a coffee drinker. I like Coca-Cola and chocolate and red wine (on occasion), therefore, my teeth have been a pain in the rear to keep white. Strips, bleaching...everything but in-office whitening--nothing worked! This toothpaste works. Within a week, I could tell a major difference. I've been using Optic White for about a year now, I guess, and people are asking ME what I use to get my teeth so white. Oh, and it's only about $2.50 at the grocery store.

BATH AND BODY:

Body Wash
Bath and Body Works Be Enchanted
This came in the 2011 Black Friday bag, and I've been a fan ever since. It smells like sugared pomegranate, which makes me think of sparkles and glitter and girly-girl shinies. It's loverly.

*Bath and Body Works Cashmere Glow
If you want something a little more grown-up and sophisticated, this also smells divine and has the added bonus of shea. I don't even need lotion after using this, most of the time.

Shaving Cream
Gillette Satin Care with a Touch of Olay
I started using this over the Summer, and have repurchased several times since then. During the past few months, I did try a high-end and another drugstore brand of shave cream, and neither compared to this. I've gotten close, smooth shaves with very few nicks, and my legs feel silky smooth afterwards. It's a keeper.

Sunless Tanner
Victoria's Secret Beach Sexy Sunless Tanner
Would you look at that? I'm not orange! My clothes aren't orange, either? And you only cost $15? At a place that runs $10 off sales regularly? Wowzers! Now, will it make you look like a VS Angel? Um...no, but it will make you look less like Wednesday Adams.

Sunscreen (Face)
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock
This is non-greasy, sinks right in, and isn't a pain to apply makeup over. Basically, it's everything a facial sunblock should be.

Sunscreen (Body)
Hawaiian Tropic Dry Oil Clear Spray Sunscreen
I just like this sunscreen! It smells good, comes in a wide variety of SPF values, and gives you a little bit of a shiny glow without making you feel like you'll stick to everything you come in contact with.

HAIR:

Hair Treatment
It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product
It detangles. It conditions. It's a heat protectant. It adds shine. It slices. It dices...okay, maybe not those last two, but it, seriously, does repair and protect your hair. I've used this for a year, and even with all the heck I put my hair though, I've found little to compare it to.

Styling Product
Bumble & Bumble Prep
This stuff has saved my life on more than one occasion. Maybe that's a little overly-dramatic, but not by much. I use this on shoots when I have to touch up curls. Prep reactivates the products already in your hair, so a few spritzes of this and a few minutes in hot rollers and I'm back in action. I also love it for reactivating Surf Spray, to get some serious texture for messy buns on the second day. And yes, it works to add volume and sleekness to blow-outs, and can be used by itself with hot rollers to create soft waves. A travel size is about $6, and it's worth every penny.

Hairspray
Pantene Pro-V Classic Maximum Hold
It's an oldie but a goodie. Basic hairspray that does what it says. 'Nuff said.

*Aquage Freezing Spray
I used this on my most recent shoot, and was dumbstruck. My pin-up hair stayed picture perfect for several hours, even in humidity, and even when it began to wilt toward the end of the day, it wasn't enough to require a touch-up. It's pricey, but if you need liquid cement--that doesn't look crunchy or stiff!!!--this is a great product.

Dry Shampoo
Ion Daily Solutions Dry Shampoo
If you have time to wash your hair, then by all means, wash your hair. However, for those omigod-I-can't-believe-the-alarm-didn't-go-off mornings, this might be a lifesaver. I like to use it as a texturizer for braids and buns, even when my hair's clean.

Styling Tool
Remington Style Ceramic Compact Hot Rollers
This little wonder gives you five small rollers and five medium-large-ish rollers, as well as pins, and can still fit inside your purse. It's great for travel, small spaces, and--in my case--touch-ups on shoots. Even with really long, really thick hair, you'd be surprised how effective these are. I have several sets of rollers, and these are, by far, my favorites.

Hair Color
L'Oreal Root Rescue
It's a squeezy-tube of 10 minute color, and it really does match! My hair grows really fast, and I'm starting to get those pesky "sparkles" (I refuse to call them gray hairs!), so even with regular colorings, sometimes I need a pick-me-up. I love this, and recommend it highly. Trust me, you won't end up with polka-dotted hair.

MAKEUP:

Primer
Tarte Clean Slate
I've tried all sorts of other primers, and I just keep coming back to this. It feels silky and fills in pores beautifully. It's just a really darn good primer.

Tinted Moisturizer/BB Cream
Too Faced Beauty Balm
This is, I think, the only foundation I've ever repurchased. I know I bought a couple of CoverGirl NatureLuxes, but I'm not sure if any were flat-out repurchases. Yes, I realize this is pretty much a glorified tinted moisturizer, but it gives light-to-medium coverage (depending on how you build it up), feels light, and makes my skin look brighter and more even. The vitamins and skin benefits don't hurt, either.

Foundation
MAC Studio Sculpt
This gives medium-to-full coverage, and was recommended to me when I went to MAC looking for HD foundation. Even with that, it still feels light and leaves a slightly dewy finish. Lasts for hours and looks like skin. It's a winner.

Concealer
Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer
This is one of the best concealers I've ever dealt with. I kind of hate the packaging, but it's worth the hassle for the gold inside. This reduces puffiness, so I haven't had to use my undereye roller in months. It conceals so well and with such a lightweight feel, that I wish it was foundation. It's also a pretty great highlighter, if you get a lighter shade for under your eyes. There's not a great range of shades, but if you can find yours, definitely consider giving it shot.

Powder
Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder
It's cheap, has decent coverage, works on a wide range of skin tones (especially the Transparent shade), doesn't clog pores, sets makeup beautifully, isn't cakey, lasts a good long while, and did I mention it's cheap?

Eye Primer
Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden
If you have any redness or discoloration on your lids, this will help counteract it. If you don't...it still gives you a great blank canvas to make shadow colors pop and keep them from creasing. I've tried other primers, and I just keep coming back to this one.

Cream Eyeshadow
Benefit Creaseless Cream Eyeshadow in Sippin 'n' Dippin
I'm afraid this one's been discontinued, but you can still get it from All Cosmetics Wholesale. It's a beautiful peachy gold that works beautifully as a base and by itself.

Eyeshadow Palette
Urban Decay Naked 2
This gets a lot of flack for being fairly one-note, but I beg to differ. I've gotten dramatic smoky, daytime bronze, glamorous silver, and about a bajillion other looks out of this one palette, and still reach for it over my Naked 1 more often than not. Yeah, there's a lot of taupe, but it's a lot of different taupes, so it works.

Eyeshadow Single
Buxom Stay-There Eye Shadow in Collie
This could have taken the Cream Eyeshadow spot, but it's really more of a mousse, and I've never even considered using it as a base. Plus, it seems to dry down to a powder. Anyway, this is a simply gorgeous champagne shadow with oodles of sparkle. If you want glitter without the fallout, here you go.

Eyeshadow Pencil
Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeshadow Pencil in Rehab
Great as a liner, great as a quick lid color, doesn't budge, and the color is a pretty neutral medium brown. You can't go wrong.

Eye Liner
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil in Zero
Again, this doesn't budge. It's also very creamy, very black, and most likely included in whatever palette you just bought. Seriously, I have so many I've given some away and still may never have to buy one.

Mascara
Buxom Buxom Lash Waterproof
A makeup artist used the non-waterproof version of this on me years ago, and I've been in love ever since. The waterproof version came out a few months ago, and I've never looked back. It's everything you need for long, voluminous, black, pin-up-worthy lashes.

Eyebrow Enhancer
E.L.F. Eyebrow Kit
For three bucks you get a wax and a powder, and they're both good quality. What's not to love?
*Smashbox 10 Piece Eye Liner and Brow Tech Palette
I've been using this on my actors, since they're of varying brow color, and it's incredible. This is a very natural-looking set of powders, and perfect for anyone who needs options. It's also hard to get a hold of, but worth the effort.

Cream Blush
MAC Cream Color Base in Virgin Isle
This is the perfect pop of healthy color! Use your fingers or a small stipple brush, and use over cream foundation or even just moisturizer. Perfect for beachy looks.

Powder Blush
NYX Crimson Amulet Palette--large peachy-pink blush
If anyone knows if this shade comes in a single, please let me know!!! I'm going crazy trying to find this! I want to put it in my go-to palette, and can't find it! This is a stunning, sparkling, universally flattering, uber-pigmented color, and I love it so much.
**NARS Orgasm
If you can't find the NYX, and don't mind spending way too much on a blush, you can't go wrong with this one. I've had mine for, oh, three years now, and it's still going strong. I wear it a lot, too, so that's really saying something. It's a shimmering (read: not glittery, just a nice sheen) golden peachy-pink, and looks amazing on everyone. There's a reason it's a cult favorite.

Contour Bronzer
Benefit Hoola
It's a fantastic matte contour color/bronzer, and another cult fave. Keep your eyes out, because generous mini-versions of this can be found in sampler packs all the time. This is one I keep in my actor makeup kit, and it works great as a shadow, too.

"Bronzing" Bronzer
Too Faced Pink Leopard
This one seems to polarize folks. Either you love it or you hate it. Me? I love it. It's a light bronzer with a hint of pink and fair amount of shimmer. You can use it as a bronzer on the tops of cheeks, as a highlighter for more golden looks, or as a very subtle blush. For fair lasses, it's a multi-tasking dream. For darker tones, it's a lovely highlighter, but might not be worth your while.

Cream Highlight
Benefit Watt's Up
Whoa, Nellie! This leaves a gorgeous pale golden champagne glow on your skin, and the stick form makes it easy to apply to your cupid's bow, and allows you to travel with it easily. Again, keep your eyes open for mini-versions in sampler packs: they're even more travel-friendly, and will last for-freaking-ever.

Powder Highlight
MAC Mineralize Blush Duo in Moon River
I bought this before I got married five years ago, and it's still going strong. This is THE perfect pink powder highlighter, and I'm still on the hunt for a replacement dupe. Unfortunately, it's long been discontinued.
**Too Faced Snow Bunny
This is so shiny and beautiful, I can't even begin. The colored strips merge to give you a pinky-bronzy-champagney glow.
*Too Faced Glamour To Go Spun Sugar Highlighter
This is part of the G-T-G palette, and is by far the most used section of mine. It's glittery and gold, and not for the faint of heart. Loves it!

Lipstick
PINK: Victoria's Secret Enamored
Glossy, but easier to apply and far less sticky than regular gloss, in a perfect coral pink.
NUDE: MAC Shy Girl
Warm, slightly pumpkin-y nude with a glossy sheen.
MATTE: Buxom Big & Healthy Lipstick in Bombay
A true rose shade that can also be used as liner. Comes with built-in sharpener!
RED: MAC Russian Red
It's red. It's matte. It's long-wearing. It's fabulous.

Lip Gloss
NUDE: Urban Decay Lip Junkie in Naked
This is my Summertime nude gloss. It's a little pink, non-sticky, and lasts a good long while. Over time, it really did noticeably plump my lips. It's a little pricey, but the tubes are huge.
PINK: Buxom Big & Healthy Lip Polish in Trixie
This is another great Summer color. It's a Barbie pink that's just opaque enough to show up. Non-sticky, cool mint feel and taste.

Lip Balm
Revlon Lip Butter in Cherry Tart
This is as low-maintenance a true red as you can get. It's also glossy and moisturizing. Amazeballs.

Balm Stain
Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Honey
This gives your lips just a hint of color, and you don't need to worry about reapplying...like, ever. You might want to keep some clear balm around for moisture touch-ups, though.

Lip Liner
Rimmel Lasting Kisses
This is the only lip liner I use these days. They're creamy, long-wearing, come in a ton of shades, look as good as MAC (in my opinion) and cost a few dollars at the drugstore. I can't argue with any of that.

Setting Spray
Urban Decay All-Nighter
How good is this? I shelled out the almost thirty bucks for a big size to keep in my actor kit, and a mini sits on my counter. Need makeup to last for hours? This'll do it. Need powder to look less cakey? It'll set you up. Anti-humidity protection? BAM! It's a must-have.

Limited Edition Palette
NYX Crimson Amulet Palette
I am so glad I picked this up. High-quality shadows in a variety of shades and finishes, some of the best blushes I've ever used, a really good highlighter, and so much more! If you can find one, grab it. You won't regret it.

Brushes
Real Techniques
These are my brushes of choice now. I've started buying a second set for shoots. I gave a set to my Mom. That's how good they are. Dense, soft, highly-effective, easy to work with brushes that are color-coded for function, flat on the bottom (to stand up), and come with their own display/brush rolls--and are not much more expensive than E.L.F.'s Studio Line. Answered prayers.

Nail Polish Brand
China Glaze
I've just really gotten into this brand this year! They're inexpensive, great quality, and the colors are unique and plentiful. The Hunger Games collection were some of my favorite polishes of 2012, hands down.

Nail Polish Remover
Sephora by O.P.I. Nail Color Remover
This works quickly, smells nice, and doesn't make my nails peel. It's also not terribly expensive.

*Loved more, but used less due to when it was discovered.
**Non-Limited Edition most used product.

Week of Naked 2 Challenge!: Day One

It's that wonderful time of year, when the temperatures drop, caloric consumption explodes, and high-ticket items can be purchased with coupons! Ah, Christmas!

Seriously, though, Sephora will be sending out coupons, most likely, and Ulta has already started. If you have any "you've got to be kidding me" items on your shopping list, the holiday season is one of the rare times you might be able to snag it at a discount. Now, I know that one of the crazy popular items last year was the Naked 2 palette, and that its popularity hasn't really waned. Some of you are probably eyeing it, but wondering if it's worth the money, or if you could use it.

I can't tell you.

See, the shadows are amazing, but color preference is up to the user. I like it a lot, but that doesn't mean you will. In an effort to help any of you who are curious about the versatility of the palette, or how the shadows look in a real world setting, I've decided to field test the palette for a week, with a different look each day. That's how much I love you guys. These are not tutorials or even looks you might want to copy. This is just to check the range and appearance of the shadows, and see how well they work together. Also, is it even possible to get a week's worth of different looks with the palette? I don't really know. I've never tried.

So, without further ado, here's today's look. I wanted an "I just threw this on" look today. I've been cleaning house all morning, and was only going to wear jeans and sweatshirt to record today. My hair's in a ponytail, and I went with tinted moisturizer instead of foundation because I'm currently broken out to heck and back. I'm pretty. A full-on eye look would just be silly.


Right Eye, Indoors



Left Eye, Outdoors

For this look, I used Tease from lid to a little over the crease, YDK on the outer third of the eye and crease, Busted on the outer corner, crease, and under the lower lashline, Chopper on the browbone and inner corner. Liner and Mascara are both Buxom.

One day down, four more to go!

Villainous Vanity: Disney and E.L.F. Villain Palettes

Once Upon a Time, the good fairies at Disney and the pretty pixies at MAC concocted a delightfully wicked collection of villainous cosmetics, and there was much rejoicing. Some time later, the good Disney fairies decided to create their own brand of magnificently malevolent makeups, and there was, um, less rejoicing. Now, the fairies have opted to bring on board the happy elves at, well, E.L.F. to magick up a new line of palettes for beautiful baddies, and I, for one, am ridiculously excited.

Available for a limited time at select Walgreen's, beginning September 15th (mark your calendars, guys!), will be three E.L.F. palettes, based upon Snow White's Evil Queen, Sleeping Beauty's Melificent, and 101 Dalmatians' Cruella DeVille. The palettes each contain colors themed to their specific villain, and each focuses on a different style of makeup. The Evil Queen's "Daringly Dramatic Eyes" palette is plummy overall. Melificent's "Sinister Smoky Eyes" are gorgeously green, and Cruella's "Evil Everyday Eyes" boasts a neutral, natural color scheme.

Photo Credit: Musings of a Muse

An Instagram photo was released on Friday, giving an up-close view of the Melificent palette. It appears to hold a set of false eyelashes and glue, eight eye shadows, an eyelid primer, two lip pencils, and what could be either an eyeliner or lipgloss (the pictures aren't the greatest in the world). Palettes will retail for $9.99.

Photo Credit: Instagram

I'm beyond thrilled at the prospect of bringing these home. The packaging is beautiful (I love the mirror!), and E.L.F. has some wonderful products. The brand has a tendency to be hit or miss, but when they get it right, they knock it out of the park. From these photos, it looks like they've gotten it right.

Sitting Pretty In Express Check-In

Summer Vacation! Sign me up! Right now, all I want to do is put on a swimsuit (and a cover up! Dear God!), slather on some sunscreen, grab a margarita and listen to crashing waves. Honestly, I can't think of anything in the world I'd rather do than just that. Lucky for me, I live 45 minutes from a gorgeous beach, so all I have to do is toss a cooler and towel in the trunk of my car and drive off into the sunshine. However, I know that's not the case for everyone. Some of you might even have to *gasp* brave air travel to get your beach on. Since Memorial Day is around the corner, and no one wants to have to check a bag if they can avoid it, here are my top purse-sized makeup palette choices to get you through the long weekend with no muss, no fuss, and hopefully, no strip searches*.

Okay, I picked five palettes that will not only take care of all of your color needs, but will also fit neatly inside your purse or beach bag for touch-ups. The only other things you might want to toss in your quart-sized Ziploc are a Garnier BB Cream (super-cheap and works great!), a waterproof mascara (, and maybe a liner (I like Urban Decay 24/7 Shadow Pencil in Rehab for a natural, beachy look. Milani also has a drugstore dupe that's almost spot on). I don't even think I'd bother with powder, considering the humidity. Seriously, what would even be the point? But, of course, that's up to you. To keep your money handy for souveniers and mai tais, these are all under $30.
 

Photo Credit: Twilight Beauty



The teeniest of the bunch is the itty-bitty Luna Twilight (yes, that Twilight) Color Palette in Rosalie. It's, literally, the size of a credit card. Ultra-thin and lightweight, you'd never guess that it has two shadows (peachy champagne and a soft almost-tangerine), a peach lipstick, apricot gloss, and a good-sized blusher that rivals Benefit Coralista. I haven't reviewed this palette, for some odd reason, but I've played with it for a little while now, and think it makes one of the most beautiful, natural-looking makeups I've ever worn. The colors melt into your skin, making it seem as if you just naturally look this gorgeous. I'll be 32 in about three weeks, and, I swear, this makes me look more like I'll be 22. Can't say enough good about it. My only complaint: I wish you could buy the colors in larger sizes, as well. $28, and other characters are available. If that's a little steep for you, click this link to go to a discount site. It's only $12.99 there, and not a knock-off or anything shady like that. 

Photo Credit: Kaboodle



The next one is also $12.99, but that's its regular price. NYX Natural Look Kit in Nude On Nude contains nine neutral shadows and two pink-toned glosses, which could also double for cheek color (that's me talking, not NYX). I have not had the opportunity to test the kit out, but from my experience and research, this is a great deal on some quality products. There are several variations of this kit out there, but this bronzey-brown kit is my pick to look like a golden goddess over Memorial weekend.

Photo Credit: Musings of a Muse

Stila puts out some fantastic travel kits, and they're all very reasonably priced. Not So Nude may be the best-looking one they've had, to date. I say best-looking because I (again) haven't gotten to personally play with it, but if it's anything like their other kits, it's a winner. For only $20, you get six shadows (and I adore Stila shadows. They're like shimmery butter), an all-over highlight in cult-fave Kitten, and a convertible color for cheeks and lips in Lily. Again, it's perfect for a natural, carefree look.

Photo Credit: Sephora

This Sephora Collection Mini-Bag Makeup Palette is too adorable for words! I have seen this little $15 wonder up-close, and it's just darling. You get nine high-quality shadows in a range similar to the original UD Naked palette, four pretty glosses that range from nude to deep berry, and a lovely blush that reminds me of Avon Classic Aura (one of my favorites). When closed, the kit resembles a Sephora shopping bag, complete with logo and a little red handle.

Photo Credit: TooFaced

Lastly, and my favorite of the group, the TooFaced Glamour To Go Palette. This $22 pack of awesomeness comes with eight creamy shadows, a good-sized bronzer and blush duo, and a lovely transluscent pink gloss. The kit is also just as cute as can be, and closes down to about the size of a smartphone, give or take. Out of the five, this would be my pick, if only because of the included bronzer. You can do a lot with a good bronzer, and TooFaced makes some of the best, in my opinion.

Happy Trails, and bring me back a daiquiri!

*Please check all TSA Rules before packing any liquids or gels in your carry-on. Rules can change, and I don't want anyone to get in trouble. Thanks!

I Swear, I've Never Done This Before!

A little while back, I gave you all the heads up on a nifty little doo-dad over at Too Faced: custom palettes for half-price (roughly the same price as one of the three included items). That was a fantastic deal, and I'm completely in love with mine, but alas, all good things must come to an end, and the custom palettes are no more. However, all the items that went into the palette are still available, and they're pretty darn awesome, so I thought I'd share with you a quick review of each.

Photo Credit (This and All): Too Faced

First up, the eyeshadow duo that came with my palette was Totally Toasted. The right side of the duo is a pink-tinged beige, while the left is a rosy brown. I love this eyeshadow. It's creamy, but not so soft that it breaks when you look at it funny (I'm looking at you, Stila), and pearly without being too glittery. The lighter color completely brightens your eye area, too, while the crease color adds just enough definition to be polished without screaming "I'm wearing makeup!!" They also blend together like magic. I've been pairing mine with a black liner pen on the top lashes, a smoky gray shadow liner on bottom, and black mascara on top lashes only. It's a little mod, and a little pin-up-y at the same time. Currently, Totally Toasted is out of stock, but that seems to be a temporary situation. If you're desperate for a substitute, though, Sexpresso & Peach Fuzz (sorry, Mom) seems to be the next closest duo. $17.00, Too Faced. 10 out of 10.

Next up, the brightening blush in Pinch My Petals Pink. Now, I'm more of a warm-toned girl; between the auburn hair and green eyes, I didn't have much choice in the matter. However, sometimes you just need to wear pink blush, especially when you're as into pink as I seem to have gotten in my advanced age. (Seriously, my pink phase has just happened over the past couple of years. What happened? I mean, I've always liked pink, but this has gotten out of hand...anyway...) It's just never been my best blush choice. I've tried everything from baby pink to fuchsia, to no avail. This blush, for some reason, works. It's pink--there's no doubt--but it's very subtle, with a hint of warmth, and it's just lovely. It also glides on silky-smooth, and looks very natural. This is a keeper. $20.00, Too Faced. 10 out of 10.

Lastly, the Mirror Mirror lipgloss in I Love Myself. First off, let me just say that I adore the names of these glosses. Each one is a little ego boost. My next purchase may have to be "D*mn, I'm Hot", just because it'll make me giggle pulling it out of my purse. This gloss is hot pink in the container, but goes on sheer with just a hint of rosy color. Now, they weren't kidding when they called it Mirror Mirror; this stuff is vinyl-like in its shininess! Thing is, though, it's not even slightly sticky, feels moisturizing, and lasts for a good long time. Again, pink isn't the easiest color for me to wear, but this is extremely flattering. Bonus points for smelling and tasting like pink grapefruit. My only gripe: the deluxe sample they sent me isn't nearly big enough! I'm going to actually have to buy the full-sized. $14.40, Too Faced. 10 out of 10.

And that, ladies and gents, is a first. I've never--NEVER--given a palette all 10s before. It's a Festivus Miracle!!

Boredom Buster: Design Your Own Makeup Palette

I know; I promised pictures and stories from my Disney World trip...I lied. Well, only partially. I have, like, a grand total of two decent pictures on my phone, and one of them is Thomas in a fez ('cause fezzes are cool). The rest of the pictures are on my mom's camera, and it's at her house, patiently awaiting download onto my computer tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll have stuff for you then. Key word: hopefully.

In the meantime, I ran across this little deal yesterday, and it's too good to pass up. Too Faced Cosmetics has an online exclusive: you can get one of their custom palettes (regular price, $35) for $17.50 right now, plus there's free shipping with the code travel until July 25th (which I totally missed, and am now kicking myself over).

Photo Credit: Too Faced Cosmetics

I love this palette. You get to pick a blush (pink, peach, or Sun Bunny bronzer), an eye shadow duo, and either a lip gloss, mascara, glitter eyeliner, or eye shadow primer. Then you get to customize the cover and add an optional gift message. I've been searching for some pretty pinks to break up my usual peach/bronze routine, so I opted for Pinch My Petals pink blush, Totally Toasted eye shadow duo (milk chocolate and toasted almond), and I Love Myself pink Mirror Mirror lip gloss. The cover is customized with a pink fishnet stocking background and black chandeliers, and inscribed with "Erin's Pink Palette". It's uber-girly, and completely awesome. Plus, the eye shadow alone would have run $17, so for fifty cents more, I got the blush and gloss to go with. Oh--they're also sending lipstick and lip plumper samples. It's a can't lose deal.

By the way, if you're stumped for what to put in your palette, I'd suggest Sun Bunny bronzer (it's my all-time favorite, and works great on all skin tones), George & Wheezy eye shadow (icy gold and bronze pearl), and a Lash Injection mascara. Those are great shimmery but natural colors for a glowy, polished look, and you can have it all in one place.

One more awesome thing, and then I promise to quit gushing. After I placed my order, I received a phone call from a rep at Too Faced. Seems they'd run out of the lip gloss I'd originally chosen, and rather than just randomly toss in a replacement (as so many other companies would), they called to see what I'd like in its place. That really says a lot about how they value their customers, and it's very much appreciated. $17.50, Too Faced.

**UPDATE! It appears that Too Faced has discontinued this palette. The items are still available, though, so stay tuned for a review of individual pieces. 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 "It" Factor

Last year, Stila put out what they called the "It Girl" palette through Sephora. For about ten bucks, you got three large, coordinated eyeshadows, including their best-seller, Kitten. It was awesome. The colors were beautiful, the packaging was high-end, and the whole thing was so nice I gave one to a friend for her birthday. The amazing cocoa, bright gold, and champagne hues have earned their place on my counter, and also managed to find their way onto my eyes almost daily. This was seriously one of the best $10 purchases I've made.

But enough about that. It's gone. No longer in stock. Unavailable. What's a girl to do? Why get the "It Girl Eyeshadow Palette #2!" The price has gone up slightly ($14, Sephora), and while the colors are different, they're in no way disappointing.

Photo Credit: Sephora



This year's version focused on neutrals. You still get my very most favoritest eyeshadow ever, Kitten--a pale champagne pink that instantly brightens the entire eye area (I have three pans of it, now!)--but now it's paired with a shimmering gold-flecked coffee brown--aptly named Americano--and a surprisingly striking matte nut-brown, Eve. The shadows are soft and creamy, blend on like butter, are well-pigmented and have serious staying power. I use mine over a primer, but I've forgotten my primer before, and noticed little to no creasing. Stila makes a good eyeshadow. No doubt about it.

The packaging is identical to last year's. It consists of a sturdy, black plastic shell with a clear viewing window. The Stila logo is printed on the front in silver, surrounded by little stars. It's cute as pie, folks.

What's really impressive about this year's palette, though, is the versatility is affords. Right now, I'm sporting a day-appropriate smoky eye, created solely from this palette. Eve on the lid, Americano in the crease and as a liner, and all-over Kitten to soften and blend. By darkening up a bit, that becomes a night-time look. Playing around with these colors, you can create everything from an easy weekend style, to an elegant look befitting Princess-to-be-Middleton. These are colors and textures that I'm thrilled to wear, would look amazing on my fifty-something mother, and I'd feel comfortable giving my 14-year old cousin. They're classic, timeless, and ageless. Pick up a palette before they're gone. Heck, wrap one up for Mother's Day while you're at it.

Final Verdict: 9 out of 10, simply because a brush would have been really nice. Fabulous, darling!

There! Art Thou Happy?: UNII Palette Review Part II

Do you guys know how I much I love you? Do you? I bought a UNII Palette ($29, UNII) just so I could review it for you. That's how much I love you. Don't say I never did nuthin' for you.

As you probably recall, exactly one week ago, I informed you of the existence of the UNII Palette, and linked to a video blog review of it. Well, curiosity, a sense of duty, and just the slightest twinge of guilt joined forces and compelled me to purchase a palette of my own, so I could thoroughly vet it before making my recommendation. Here's the breakdown:

Punctuality Will Get You Everywhere
When I ordered my UNII Palette, the estimated delivery time was anywhere from 2-6 business days from the ship date. It took one. Monday evening, there was a happy little brown paper package (not tied up with string, darn it) on my doorstep. 10 out of 10.

Different Strokes For Different Folks?
Hopefully, you all watched From Head to Toe's video review of the palette. Those of you who did (totally rock) would have seen the very large, very detailed instruction sheet, and the nice big set of scored magnets that come with every palette. Um...yeah...they don't. I still received really cool origami-style instruction sheet, but it was quite a bit smaller and nowhere near as detailed as the one in the video. While I did receive a sheet of magnets, it was a much smaller sheet, and not pre-scored. This is not a huge deal, and I'm sure the changes were due to results from beta testing and market research and all that jazz. I'm just confused because the original is still pictured on the website, and I find that just a little bit misleading. 6 out of 10. The packaging is adorable, and the magnets are a very thoughtful touch. It just wasn't what I was led to expect.

The Main Event

Here's my palette next to my curling iron, for sizing.

Once I had a chance to sit down and really examine the UNII palette, I was very impressed. The body appears to be very durable. I mean, I haven't thrown it across the room...yet...but it looks capable of handling air travel punishment, and that's saying something. The snap closure blends in with the overall design, and extends the length of one side. It closes very snugly, and takes some effort to open, so there's no worry of the palette popping open and spilling eyeshadow all over the inside of your purse or suitcase. The floor of the palette is painted steel, and a rubber gasket lines the inside edges. A mirror fills the entire inner portion of the lid, for ease in makeup application. A small, moveable, magnetic thumbgrip completes the setup. My UNII is called "Snow", and is a pearlescent white encased in clear plastic. When Thomas saw it, the giggled, gave me one of those, "really?" looks, and mentioned that it looked like my Mac. I like my Mac. So there. 10 out of 10.

Putting It Together
Now for the hard part: deciding what to put in the palette. I don't own any refills, so anything that went into the palette would have to be de-potted, and that meant work, and I don't like work (end of whining). I decided to go with a fairly neutral, travel-friendly set-up. See, I have a beautiful set of Stila shadows, but they came in horrible cardboard packaging that I've been holding together with a rubber band. I also have a fabulous, very well made travel palette that, unfortunately, came with one super-duper glittery shadow I detested that went and broke on me and infected everything else in the palette, and the inner workings of the case itself! This stuff was going to make up the bulk of my UNII palette.

I decided to go with the hairdryer method of de-potting. With the dryer on low heat, I warmed up the back of the cardboard palette to loosen the glue that holds the pans in place. Then, with a butter knife, carefully pried each pan from its slot. I'm not going to lie; this ain't easy. I came very close to breaking some shadows, and ended up wearing a lot of blue and purple shadow on my fingers. I had wanted to depot a couple of LORAC shadows, but had to give up the goose because the pots were so deep that I couldn't get any leverage with the butter knife. However, this is pure incompetence on my part. I'm no expert at de-potting. It, in no way, reflects upon my review of the palette. In other words, it's not the palette's fault I'm inept.

Anyhoo, moving on. Once my makeup had been freed, it was time to magnetize the pans. The instructions said to try to cover as much of the bottom of each pan as possible for best adherence. I carefully measured, cut, and applied each magnet, while remembering to label them with the brand and color of each product. Start to finish, I think the whole de-potting/magnetizing process took between thirty and forty-five minutes. Once that was finished, I went about arranging my palette.

I had sort of kind of already worked out how things were going to fit before I started de-potting. That way, I didn't de-pot more than I could chew, so to speak. I ended up fitting six full-sized rectangular Stila shadows (they're normally round, just so you know), two tiny travel-sized Urban Decay shadows, three UD lipgloss pans, and a larger travel-sized Urban Decay blush. Even with all that, I still had room for a small lipliner, lip brush, sample-sized eyeliner (thank you, Smashbox), and a deluxe sample tube of Kat Von D eyelid primer. You may applaud if you so choose. I won't stop you.

Here's what fit.

Basically, when I go on vacation, all I need to toss in a bag with it is some foundation, mascara, concealer and powder. If I feel really fancy, I can throw in a primer and some eyebrow wax, but even that's not totally necessary. I normally travel with a stuffed-to-the-gills makeup bag, and even then I've usually forgotten something. To even think that I may not have to do that again tickles me greatly. Plus, all of my "in mortal peril" makeups are safe and sound in an airtight case. 10 out of 10.

Final Verdict: 9 out of 10. If you travel or have makeup you need to save from its packaging, this was made for you.


***Update!***
When UNII emailed me my shipping notice, they asked that I submit a picture of my filled UNII. Well, after I posted this, I sent them an email with the snapshot (same as above) and a link to the review. Before the end of the day, I received this:

Hello Erin,


Thank you for taking the time to write to us and send in a picture of your filled palette, it is adorable! If it is okay with you, we would love to feature it in our gallery page (Erin S., Mobile, AL ). Also, thank you for featuring us on your blog, we really appreciate all of your feedback. We apologize for the unclarity on our website about the box. We changed our box and unfortunately have not updated our website yet. We loved our logo shaped box but as our orders increased, we were unable to keep up with folding them. The boxes were hand folded and finding skilled origamists was proving to be too difficult. It is still very important to us to package our products in interesting boxes and we hope to continue to do so. In your blog post you mentioned that you travel, a helpful travel tip that we recommend is to fold some tissue paper and lay it across your makeup before closing it to prevent all of your makeup from "swimming" around in your palette. I hope you are enjoying your palette, please don't hesitate to contact us anytime if there is anything we can do for you!
Kindest regards,

Jamie

How cool is that?! I didn't really expect a response, and certainly not a personal one that addressed the few tiny issues I had with the product! On top of that, there's even a little added travel tip thrown in. I have to admit, I'm impressed. The product is amazing, and the customer service is top-notch, as well. What can I say? I'm a fan.