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Spring Beauty Review 2012: Pretty Pastels With mark. Cosmetics!

This past week we’ve been hit with such beautiful weather. Spring is definitely in the air! One way I’ve been getting into the spring season is by wearing pretty light colors on my eyes. Here’s a palette from mark. Cosmetics that I’ve been liking. It’s part of their customized palettes. The colors I tried were Glitterati (a light shimmery green), and 3 of the Violet Femme Shades in Mystical (light shimmery lilac), Pink Dusk (pink shimmer, and Violet Ink (matte light purple). All the colors are beautiful and really complement one another. The purple is especially nice if you have brown eyes and will make them pop!

Glitterati, Mystical, Pink Dusk, Violet Ink

One thing I love about this palette is that you can customize it. The palette itself is magnetized allowing you to interchange the shadow pans if you happen to have more than 4 in your collection. I also like that the sizes of the shadow pans are quite large so you’re getting a fair amount of product in there. This palette also comes with a little brush which is nice especially if you want to take this with you on the go. I like to use my personal brushes so I didn't find a lot of use for it. There's also a handy mirror inside which is convenient for quick touch ups. In terms of color pay off I’d have to say that the pigmentation of the shimmery colors are a lot better than the matte shade. I do wish the matte one was a tad more pigmented. So if you’re looking to pick out some colors out I’d definitely go for the shimmery shades! This is a perfect a palette for those of you on the go and who like to touch up their eye shadow during the day.

Have you tried mark. cosmetics customizable palettes? If so how do you like them? Makeup Junkie wants to know!

If you'd like to purchase this palette or any mark. or Avon products and you're in the Toronto area, contact Avon representative, Elaine from Toronto Beauty Reviews, and visit her Facebook page and From Elaine Next Door blog to keep up with the latest Avon and mark. launches!

Makeup Junkie Loves...mark. Spring Accessories!

After makeup, my next loves are definitely jewelry, purses, and shoes. Accessories really complete your whole look. They are also a fun way to make an old outfit look new again. I'm kinda over winter, but then again did we really have a winter (I'm not complaining)? In any case, planning a spring/summer wardrobe is much more exciting. If you haven't thought of shopping mark. by Avon for accessories, you might want to add them to your list of faves. They have a lot of pretty baubles and of-the-moment trends that are fairly inexpensive. Check out my list of Spring favourites from mark.!

1. mark. Don't Leaf Me This Way Necklace ($24 CAD): Can you believe this was a real life at one point? Why you'll want this: no two are exactly alike! A delicate process reduces the leaf to its veins and edges before a coat of copper is applied to help strengthen and preserve those unique lines. It's such a simple and easy piece to wear and will look perfect with this Spring's sheer tops and dresses.

2. Rebecca Minkoff Delight Bag for mark. ($70 CAD): Yes, that's right - this rockin' silver studded bag is by the amazing designer, Rebecca Minkoff. I'm a huge fan of her handbag collection so I was super stoked to receive one! If you can't afford her purses, this is a much affordable option and it doesn't skimp on the quality or design. It is a perfect sized, studded faux leather bag featuring a demi chain link strap that can be tucked inside and used as a clutch. It's described as a "classic everyday bag, but with a twist". It also features her signature key clip inside so you won't have to fumble for your keys like I do! I adore it. I love wearing across the body and as a clutch but you can also adjust to wear over the shoulder. It has a lot of room and compartments to hold your cell phone, business cards and other items. I was able to fit one of my hardcover books in it along with my wallet and other everyday items! If you love Rebecca Minkoff, it's a definite must-have!

3. mark. Borrowed From The Boys Watch ($44 CAD): Ever since I saw one of the Olsen twins sporting a vintage Rolex, I loved the look. A man's watch on a woman's dainty arm just looks super chic and timeless. A vintage Rolex will never be within my reach, but there are a tonne of boyfriend-inspired watches on the market to choose from in much more affordable prices. I love this goldtoned watch from mark. and the faux rhinestones bezel gives it a luxe feminine look. It really is a pretty watch - I got lots of compliments when I was working and all were shocked that it was from mark. In the above picture, it shows the mark. logo in the center but it's not on the actual watch. From an LBD to a classic white tee, a boyfriend style watch should be a staple in your wardrobe.

4. mark. Show Off Ring ($20 CAD): Who doesn't love a fabulous cocktail ring? This pretty bauble will look lovely with a pretty floral frock or add a splash of colour to a basic outfit. I love that it's a stretch band so it will fit any finger size. Also available in fuchsia and lime green.

All items are available March 2012. If you'd like to purchase these lovelies and you're in the Toronto area, contact Avon representative, Elaine from Toronto Beauty Reviews, and visit her Facebook page and From Elaine Next Door blog to keep up with the latest Avon and mark. launches!

www.meetmark.com

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them.

Holiday Favourites 2011: The "It" List

Christmas shopping is a fun yet tortuous task for me. It's not even the money factor (ok, maybe a little). It's the case of "one for you, one for me". As you peruse my "It" list for this holiday, you'll be sure to find something to add to your wish list!

The Makeup Newbie

Clockwise:

Laura Mercier The Book of Nudes ($48 USD): Popular among makeup artists and makeup lovers, Laura Mercier's palette of nudes does not disappoint. I'm ashamed to say, but this palette is the first Laura Mercier product in my beauty stash and it is here to stay! This book of nudes will ease any makeup newbie into the world of makeup. The shades and textures are very wearable. It's a palette that will take you from day to night in a snap. The mix of matte and shimmery finishes make for a great bridal palette as well.

It includes: 8 Eye Colours in Buff (matte finish/ soft neutral cream), Tiger's Eye (sequin finish/ sparkling chocolate brown), Sandstone (sateen finish/ pale peachy pink), Bamboo (luster finish/ golden brown shimmer), Baroque (sateen finish/ warm terracotta), Fresco (matte finish/ neutral beige brown), Granite (matte finish/ smoky gray), Cocoa Brown (sateen finish/ shimmering brown), 1 Tightline Cake Liner in Ground Espresso (universal black-brown)
3 Crème Veils in Bronzer Veil (universal bronze), Cheek Veil (matte rose peach), Glow Veil (radiant neutral beige shimmer).

Makeup iQ App For iPad/iTouch by TracyP Makeup ($0.99): Every makeup newbie can use a little help. Why not learn about makeup and have fun while you're doing it? If you haven't heard, one of my favourite makeup artists, Tracy Peart of TracyP Makeup and Cityline's/Breakfast Television's key makeup artist in Toronto is the visionary genius behind this awesome app! The best part is that you can learn about makeup wherever you are!

It's a quiz and makeup game mixed into one. Answer the skill testing makeup questions...the more answers you get correct, the more makeup and hairstyling you can apply to your model. The goal of this app is to help you learn more about makeup application, and have fun while you're learning. It's inexpensive and valuable at the same time! I love gifts like that - don't you?

Make Up For Ever Wild & Chic Best of Kit ($55 USD): The holidays is the perfect time to stock up on must-have products. Most brands launch kits that have their best-sellers like this lovely kit from one of my makeup staples Make Up For Ever. If you have a gal pal just learning to wear makeup, this kit has all the essential to create a polished look. The kit includes: HD Microfinish Powder
Full Size Aqua Cream in 13 Warm Beige (champagne shimmer)
Travel Aqua Eyes in Mat Black 0L (black)
Full Size Lab Shine in Star Collection - S4 (pearly pink beige)
HD Microperfecting Primer
Full Size Smoky Lash Extra Black Mascara

It's a phenomenal deal considering there are 3 full size products in the kit. Love all their products!

The Makeup Junkie

Sephora by OPI Glimmer Wonderland 18 Piece Mini Nail Colour Set ($48 USD): Because a makeup junkie can never just have one! All nail junkies rejoice! This must-have set holds cute minis of Sephora by OPI's best-sellers, trendy shades and everyday basics. Give as one gift or divide between your besties - you decide!
Korres Cherry Picked Cherry Oil Lip Gloss Quad ($28 USD): Forget about your friends - save this one for yourself! If you love gloss, Korres glosses are the bees knees! These lovely lippies come in 4 best-selling and flattering shades and they make your lips look fantastic! You get all shine without the stickiness and it's packed full of good stuff like Cherry Oil which hydrates the lips and Vitamin E & C offers antioxidant benefits. This all-natural lip set contains 4 Cherry Oil Lip Gloss in Natural Purple 25 (sheer dusty rose), Naked Rose 22 (sheer golden rose shimmer), Fuchsia 54 (shimmering muted fuchsia), Light Purple 23 (mauve pink shimmer). These glosses are definitely in my top 5 for glosses!
Avon Expert Mega Palette ($29.99 USD): Makeup Junkies everywhere will love the many looks upon looks that can be created from this Avon mega palette. I haven't always been a fan of Avon shadows but this set seems very well pigmented especially the blushes which I'm a fan of. This amazing set contains 36 eye shadows, 36 lip glosses, and 6 blushes. Each level is like a little surprise!

Smokey Eye Lovers

Make Up For Ever Wild & Chic Aqua Eyes Set ($36 USD): Again, another amazing value set from MUFE! I've always been a fan of these long-wearing pencils. If you love your smokey eye, you'll love smudging these into your lash line for that sooty rock 'n roll effect. These also work great as a base under powder shadows. If you're also a fan of colour, you will enjoy these universally flattering shades: Full Size Aqua Eyes in Mat Black 0L (black) and 5 Travel-size Aqua Eyes in Dark Grey 21L (dark metallic grey), Iridescent Navy Blue 3L (navy blue sheen), Blue With Green Highlights 12L (metallic teal blue), Pearly Brown 2L (golden brown sheen), Purple 11L (metallic purple).
Buxom Armed & Gorgeous ($29 USD): These double-ended waterproof smoky eye sticks are no joke! For the friend who loves to bounce around from party to party, these pencils will work double duty as an eye liner and shadow. These shadow liners glide on smoothly but you have to work quickly if you want to smudge them out. The kit comes with a smudging brush and a sharpener (still haven't figured out how it works). It twists up so I guess the sharpener is used if you want the ends to be more of a point for lining. It comes in lovely shades that work for a lot of skin tones. Smokin' Pistol & Switchblade (smoky coal/ smoky metallic indigo), Two by Four & Torch (smoky black-brown/ smoky metallic brass), 5" Stiletto & Slingshot (smoky plum/ smoky metallic chrome).
Vasanti Nude Pink Lip Kit ($25 CAD): A smokey eye is not complete without a nude lip! Available in nude pink and nude brown, these lip kits are the perfect compliment to this season's smokey eye. These limited edition kits offer such great value and all products are full size. It includes Sweden Ultra Luxe Lipstick (the perfect everyday pink), Norwegian Vitamin E Infused Lip Shine (shimmering pale pink), and a Pro Lip Brush complete with a silver cover. The set comes in a cute re-useable tote perfect for gift-giving and traveling! I am a huge fan of Vasanti lip products because they have a balm-like finish that glides on smoothly and keeps your lips moisturized without any stickiness. There are so many gorgeous shades to choose from! Sweden is a great choice for a nude pink lip because it leans more warm so your lips will never look chalky.

The Home Body

Clockwise:

Sleeping With The Enemy Coco Chanel's Secret War by Hal Vaughan ($21 CAD, Chapters.indigo.ca) and Paris Wife by Paula McLain ($19 CAD, Chapters.indigo.ca): Beauty and style lovers will enjoy this book about a secret side of Chanel's life. If you're obsessed with Chanel and old Paris like I am, you or your special gal pal will love this book!

I haven't started reading Paris Wife yet, but it came highly recommended. Told in the voice of Ernest Hemingway's first wife Hadley, tells his story from her point of view. You will fall in love with characters like Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein and others from Paris the Lost Generation.

I purchased both books at Chapters/Indigo's on-line store. Fighting the hustle and bustle of holiday shoppers is not what I call a good time. Shopping on-line just makes total sense and I highly recommend shopping Chapters/Indigo's on-line store. It's user-friendly and full of great gift ideas and recommendations. You'll also benefit from cheaper prices if your a member. The best part was the super quick shipping time! It only took one day and a half for me to receive my order! Chapters.Indigo.ca is PTPA Approved so be sure to make this a shopping destination this holiday!

La Vie en Rose Minnie Surprise Me Long-Sleeved Top & Pants ($69.95 CAD): For the ones that love to get cozy at home and are big Minnie Mouse fans, she will instantly fall in love with this adorable pajama set. It's cotton and feels oh-so soft and luxurious! I love lounging around in this while I snuggle up to a good book and mug of coffee...fantastic!

Philosophy Sweet Kisses & Merry Wishes Set ($36 USD): Those that love to pamper themselves at home will enjoy a relaxing bubble bath with this yummy and scrumptious smelling set of body washes from Philosophy. For the longest time, Orange Mimosa was my favourite body wash but now I have some new faves! This offers such amazing value because it also comes with matching lip glosses! These would be perfect for dividing amongst the favourite gals in your life. The set comes with: 4 Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath in Sugar Sprinkles Funnel Cake, Peppermint Bark, Pomegranate Bubbly, Old Fashioned Eggnog and 4 Lip Shine in Sugar Sprinkles Funnel Cake, Peppermint Bark, Pomegranate Bubbly, Old Fashioned Eggnog. My personal favourites - Sugar Sprinkles Funnel Cake and Peppermint Bark! I also love the recipes on the bottles - something I will have to try this holiday!
Aveda Grounding Soy Wax Candle ($29 USD): Lighting some candles is the perfect ambiance for a relaxing soak in the bath. Aveda's soy wax candle uses the aromas of pur flower and plant essences including organic vanilla, ginger, and cassia. You will enjoy up to 50 hours of aroma that burns cleanly and completely. Those that are green friendly will appreciate the chic 95% recycled glass holder it comes in.

The Big Spender

Jo Malone Cologne Collection ($95 USD/$110 CAD): For the gal pal that loves only the best. If you have the money to dish on a luxury gift set, this cologne set from Jo Malone will be adored by the fragrance lover in your life. What I love about Jo Malone fragrances is that you can combine with other scents in the collection and create your own custom scent. The set includes Grapefruit, Red Roses, Vanilla Anise, Pomegranate Noir, and Wild Bluebell. I absolutely adore Vanilla Anise and I love the understated yet elegant packaging.
La Mer The Discovery Collection ($260.00 USD): I'm all for dishing out money on expensive skincare because to me good skin is the most important. La Mer isn't just expensive - it's luxuriously expensive so only splurge on this for your BFF or yourself! But when it comes to this line it's definitely worth it! I love La Mer cream and I wish I could own multiple tubs of this. This set includes 1 oz Creme de la Mer, The Radiant Serum .5 oz, and The Eye Balm Intense .17 oz.

So, what's on your wish list? How much do you spend on friends?

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them.

Fall Beauty Trend 2011: Brow How

Photo Source: Style.com Alexander Wang F/W 2011

Move over bright lips and smokey eyes, in-your-face brows are this season's star. A nice, full brow never goes out of style for me though. Full brows help frame your face while thin brows just age you. Seen at Alexander Wang the full brow is bold, dark and a bit extreme especially when the rest of the face is bare. Here are some star products and key tips to achieving a full yet natural brow!

Stila All Day Waterproof Brow Color in Medium ($27 CAD): Where have you been all my life?? Because my hair is so dark, I tend to use shadows as my brow colour because I can never find anything to match properly. They are either too heavy, too dark, too grey, or have a reddish undertone.

Stila's brow colour is waterproof and seriously stays on until I take my makeup off. I got to test this while it was still hot out and humid out. The results: perfectly full brows that didn't fade or melt in the heat. I was a little skeptical when I saw the shade because it looks like a soft brown-black. But when I applied it to my brows, it actually looked like my brow colour. It really blended in nicely which I was really surprised about. The soft point allows you to mimic the way your brows naturally grow. Apply gently using upward strokes. Use it to fill in all over or just in sparse areas.

Avon Brow Gel in Clear ($6 USD): When left natural, my brows are coarse, straight, bushy, and long. It's just a hairy mess. I need to pluck, cut and use a gel to keep these puppies in place. Avon has a great, inexpensive brow gel in Clear that keeps my brows feeling soft yet locks them in. I love brow gels because they just enhance the overall shape of your brows and make everything look neat and in place. Use a brow gel to finish the brows after you've filled them in.

Are you hot on the brow trend? What are your go-to brow products?

Products were sent for editorial consideration and I truly love them.

Summer Beauty Review: mark by Avon Ibiza Glosses

Mark does lip gloss right!

In its upcoming summer 2011 collection, mark introduces Ibiza Sol Marbleized Lip Gloss. The packaging tempts us to get “bonita” – pretty in Spanish – with these luscious lips shades. Sounds like a plan to me!

The glosses come in three shades:

Bonita Pink – a matte bubblegum pink with a rosy red swirl
Chica Coral – a muted peach with a metallic dark coral swirl
Hola! Bronze – a darker dusty rose with a shimmering mocha swirl

Although the colours look pretty vibrant in the tube, they’re actually pretty natural looking once applied – to my surprise! Each gloss has shimmering golden undertones which go along with the beachy, exotic theme. The consistency is thick enough to stay put for a couple hours, but that’s about as long as you can stretch it without having to reapply.

The rectangular casing is pretty neat with use of negative, clear space around the product. Once opened, the fragrance is even better! It really does smell like an instant vacation with coconut notes that make you day dream of being on the beach.

Overall, this product is a perfect everyday gloss at a pretty decent price point. Each 0.13 fl. oz. lip gloss retails for $10 on meetmark.com, or through your Avon representative.

by Brooke

Products were sent for editorial consideration.

Spring Beauty Review: Love Is In The Air For Reese Witherspoon!

As spring graces us with its presence, love is in the air! Maybe that’s what Reese Witherspoon was

thinking when she recently launched her new fragrance “Love to the Fullest”, exclusively for Avon.

“Love to the Fullest” has a very fresh scent, with black cherry, sandstone, and evening primrose notes.

It’s a very versatile perfume as it isn’t too strong or musty. Throughout the day, I noticed it every now

and then, but it definitely wasn’t overpowering.

With a seafoam green colour theme, the bottle and packaging are relatively plain, and not as eye

catching as many other fragrance bottles are these days.

This eau de toilette spray is exclusively available through Avon retailing at $25 USD for 1.7 fl. oz. It’s just one

of three in Witherspoon’s Expressions Collection. The other two fragrances are called “Live Without

Regrets” and “Laugh Often” which are set to launch separately later this year.

Have you tried this fragrance? Love it? Hate it? Want it?

http://avon.com/

by Brooke

Product was sent for editorial consideration.