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How To Beat The Bed Rest Blues: Makeup Part 1

Many of you may think I'm ridiculous for even bothering to wear makeup while I'm in the hospital, but to prevent myself from getting deeply depressed, putting on makeup puts me in a good mood. Plus, it forces me to have some sort of routine and purpose for getting up in the morning. Many nurses have asked me if I was being discharged because I'm wearing makeup and wearing normal clothes and when I get wheeled to my ultra sounds, I get a few stares because I'm not wearing the typical hospital garb. One of my favourite nurses, Esther, told me that oddly enough pregnancy looks good on me - I'll take it! Guess I should be pregnant all the time! ha!

Now, don't go thinking I'm wearing a full face of makeup. I'm wearing enough to make me look polished and playing on that "pregnancy glow". Check out which products have been keeping this face in check!

1. Nanoblur ($19 CAD): I've had this product for a while and haven't really had much chance to test it out. I decided I'd use Nanoblur because it could blur out any imperfections that my minimal makeup wouldn't cover up. If you don't know the genius of Nanoblur you'll want to know it. It's not a skincare product but a quick fix for when you need to look 10 years younger in a matter of seconds. It blurs fine lines, wrinkles, redness, minimizes pores and even mattifies the skin making it appear more even and less shiny. It works really well as a primer too. In seconds, I can really notice a difference in the texture and appearance of my skin. I don't have very big pores, but around my t-zone area they are more prominent. As soon as I apply this stuff, it instantly smooths out. The texture applies thick and is more suited for drier or mature skin types but I'm sure would work well on oily skin too in smaller amounts especially since it mattifies. I do find that you have to work it into the skin fast because it absorbs quite quickly. You also have to let it set for a few minutes or else your foundation or concealer won't blend nicely. Great thing is that you can apply when you're on the run over your makeup for a mid-day perk-me-up. It's a great quick fix at such an affordable price!

2. Cover FX SkinTint FX SPF 30 in M Light ($39 CAD): Just because I'm not getting any sun doesn't mean I can't fake it. As mentioned in a previous post, SkinTint FX has been my go to TM. Packing this one for the hospital was an obvious choice for me. It gives me a sun-kissed, radiant glow while giving me some coverage. I don't want to look like I'm made up and SkinTint looks so close to my natural skin. If you're not in the loop, Cover FX wants you to help them spread the word about skin cancer! For the month of June, with every new "Like" on their FB page, they will donate $0.25 to skin cancer research: David Cornfield Melanoma Fund Fund in Canada, The Skin Cancer Foundation in the US and SKCIN, The Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity in the UK.

3. Smashbox Photo Op Under Eye Brightener ($18 USD): This one is an oldie but a goodie! I've been using Photo Op for years to brighten under my eyes (read past post here). If you don't suffer from severe dark circles, you can get away with using this as your normal concealer. But for someone that does need more coverage, this helps brightens the under eyes under your concealer. Instead of taking a full coverage concealer with me, I only packed Photo Op because again I didn't want to look too done up. This brightens and gives a luminous effect and if I apply a few layers it covers up the darkness alright. I've also been using it to highlight the inner corners of my eyes, my brow bones and my cheekbones!

4. Urban Decay Naked Palette ($58 CAD): This has to be my HG of neutral palettes! I've been dieing to get my hands on this ever since its launch and every time I went to a Sephora it was sold out. One of my BFF's was doing a little makeup shopping at her local Shoppers and asked me about Urban Decay. Seeing how she's in the Durham region, I was surprised to know that this location carried UD products. I immediately asked if the Naked palette was in stock and to my surprise it was! She snatched it up for me and now we are forever buds. There are a ton of reviews and swatches out there so I'm sure you know what all 12 shades look like. I love the mix of shimmery, matte and satin tones making it an ideal palette for everyday, bridal and for more dramatic looks. I've used it on a lot of my clients and this is one palette I use on myself whenever I go out. I don't use it everyday at the hospital but when I know a visitor is coming I'll emphasize my eyes a little. The shadows I use the most are: Buck (matte brown), Half Baked (bronze), Smog (golden brown shimmer), Dark Horse (bronze-plum shimmer) and Hustle (mocha shimmer).

5. Lancome Hypnose Doll Lashes Mascara ($34 CAD): There hasn't been a Lancome mascara that I've been disappointed with. If you love the lengthening effect of the Hypnose line, you will love the feathery, voluminous finish of the new Doll Lashes mascara (unscented version for Canada). Here's what I love:

gorgeous, feathery, and voluminous
the conical brush allows you to get at every lash and at the root
love the subtle sheen and the shade is a deep, dark black
gives a very dramatic lash with a few swipes
lashes feel very soft to the touch

What I didn't love:

I found the handle of the brush a little big and awkward to hold
didn't give my lashes as much lift as compared to other brands I've tried. The length was just ok for me.
the softness of the lash didn't hold the lift and caused my lashes to droop later on in the day
I prefer water-proof versions. This one was the regular mascara and did smudge on my bottom lash line.

I'm curious to try the water-proof version (if one is released) and see if the lift, hold, and smearing is better. But I really do love the "doll-like" effect it gives. I received the one that is rose scented and actually don't mind it but I think most will appreciate the non-scented version. This mascara will be available mid-August.

Have you tried any of these products? Stay tuned for part 2 of my makeup must-haves!

Products were sent for editorial consideration (with the exception of the UD Naked Palette) and I truly love them!

Makeup 101: Flirty Plum Eyes With Bride-to-Be Erica!

I love that we're going into the second week of October and bridal season is still going strong! Meet Erica, one of my gorgeous brides-to-be! She's a natural beauty with lovely green eyes and long lushes lashes. I instantly wanted to play up her green eyes so we decided to go with a neutral base and plum accents in the crease. Plum, being one of the big trends for Fall, is a perfect palette for this November bride! (Quick shout-out to Naomi for inspiring me to do this post! Thank you!)

Here are the star products:

Skin:

Cargo blu_ray High Definition Mattifier Primer (t-zone)

Make Up For Ever HD Primer (rest of face)

Face Atelier Ultra Pro Foundation #2/#3 mixed (all over and under eyes)

YSL Touche Eclat #1 (under eyes)

Make Up For Ever HD Powder

Bailey Cosmetics Foundation Duo in Tan (contour)

Eyes:

CoverFX EyePrep FX

Bobbi Brown Caviar Eye Shadow (brows)

M.A.C. Vanilla and White Frost (brow bone)

the fake lashes were not glued on for the trial which explains why it is falling off the left eye!

1. NARS Rajasthan Duo Eye Shadow ($32 USD): I love this duo. For this look I only used this metallic almond shade as her lid colour. I also applied this on the lower lash line. Even though we were using plum shades, we still wanted the overall look to be fairly neutral. I have used the metallic almond colour on just about every skin tone and every result is beautiful. I will definitely do another feature using both the shades because the navy-grey is a sexy alternative for a black smokey eye.

2. M.A.C. Sketch Shadow ($17.50) Sketch is an oldie but a goodie! This burgundy-plum shadow with red shimmer is deep and gives the eye a real sultriness to it. I added this shade in the outer crease to middle of the lid and over top of UD 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Crush. This shade was also applied on the lower lash line.

3. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Crush ($17 USD): I've had a love affair with these eye pencils for a few years. This is actually from last Fall's collection. Crush is a deep plum with teeny silver glitter. I love using cream bases like an eye pencil to bring out the hue of a powder shadow. Plus, it helps enhance the staying power of a powder shadow. Thankfully the glitter does not fall off onto the skin and gives the hint of sparkle appropriate for a grown woman. I also used UD's Zero black liner to line the top lash line. She didn't want a heavy line so I smudged it into her lash line and dipped an angled brush in black shadow to help lock it in.

L'Oreal Black Mascara (bride's own)

4. Quo #803 Lashes Shopper's Drug Mart Brand ($7.99): I adore Quo lashes. I do not love the glue but their line of fake lashes has never disappointed me. There are a variety of styles to choose from and all are made with 100% natural human hair. One of my favourite styles from the line is the #803. The hair is longest at the center and shorter on the sides which makes the eyes really pop. The feathery quality also gives it a flirty quality and looks very natural against her own lashes. Erica already has long lashes but these falsies just enhanced them even more. Tip: I don't always like to add an obvious line with liquid liner to hide the band. Since she doesn't want the liner to look thick, I will use a flat synthetic brush dipped in black liquid liner and smudge it right onto the band of the fake lashes.

Cheeks:

5. Benefit PosieTint Cheek and Lip Stain ($28 USD): Another beauty crush. When it first came out I tried it on in the store and wasn't too impressed. A month ago, one of my bride's asked me to use it on her underneath a powder blush. I fell in love! I finally decided to pick one up and can't get enough of it. I love cheek and lip stains especially since I wear minimal makeup for everyday. I love it on its own or layered underneath a pink or coral-pink blush which is what I did with Erica. It's creamier than the original, Benetint, and gives a true girly flush. On my skin tone, I need about 2 layers on my cheeks and 3 layers on my lips but once it's on it stays on. I applied this first then dusted a translucent powder to set it.

NARS Douceur Blush (dusted over top of PosieTint)

M.A.C. Mineralize Skinfinish in Shimpagne (cheekbones)

Lips:

M.A.C. Dervish Lip Liner (all over)

Beaute Cosmetics Luminous Volume Gloss in Paramour

6. YSL Rouge Volupte Perle Lipstick SPF 15 in Stellar Pink ($34 USD): This bride is a gloss junkie but I think I've made a lipstick convert out of her! Stellar Pink is a soft pink-beige from the Fall collection and is a shade that is "your-lips-but-better". This luxurious, creamy lipstick is packed with pigment but the glossy finish keeps your lips ultra moisturized. It's not a long-lasting lipstick but if you don't mind reapplying you'll love how it just cushions your lips!

What do you think of Erica's bridal look? Have you tried any of these products? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em?

Most products with the exception of Benetint PosieTint, Quo #803, and M.A.C. Sketch Eye Shadow were sent for editorial consideration.

Summer Faves: Eyes

In the summer time I generally don't wear too much shadow for fear of having them smudge or crease on me. However, this season's stay put formulas give me reason to reach for the hottest summer hues!

1. Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer Potion in Eden ($18 USD): The original UD primer is an absolute staple in my kit and when Eden came out I was definitely intrigued. A primer/shadow in one? Right up my alley. I received a sample to test out and decided to wear it alone as a shadow.

Left side blended, right side not blended

On me, this "tawny matte hue" shows up more like a bone shade on me. A little goes a long way. With too much on, I felt it almost lightened my eye area too much making it look ashy against my skin tone. Definitely use sparingly. The primer does have a brightening affect as it lightens the eye area and reduces redness on the lids. Underneath a shadow, it is as long-wearing and crease-proof as the original. All in all, I prefer the original over Eden but it works great when a little amount is used.

2. M.A.C. To The Beach Shadow in Firecracker ($17.50 CAD): I know, this is so last 2 collections ago! M.A.C. is known for launching so many collections a month so even though this is the summer collection, it seems so passe! Nevertheless, Firecracker is still a must-have summer shade.

Firecracker is a warm, burnt orange-coral shade. The colour looks delish against bronzey skin. It's a bold shade but the warmth of the hue makes it so wearable for summer. Pair this with golds and bronze or smut it up with black khol rimmed eyes. Balance the shade with peachy, bronze or coral cheeks and a light gloss.

3. YSL Fard Lumiere Aquaresistant in Golden Sands ($35 CAD): Luxury in a pot. It's like sweeping real gold over your lids. I received Golden Sands to sample and fell in love with the high-shine shimmer. When I first opened it, I thought the shadow had a glitter finish. Thankfully, it doesn't but has strong shimmer pigments. For day, apply a small amount for a sheer luminous finish. To make it wearable for the office, mix with a matte shadow. But for night, layer the shimmer on! The more your layer, the more intense the pigment and shine. This light-weight, water-proof formula has a nice cooling effect and seriously does not budge. Sweat, swim, dance - this shadow isn't going anywhere!

4. Everyday Minerals Loose Pigment Shadow in Mall Punk ($2.50 USD): I don't usually gravitate towards loose pigment shadows but Mall Punk has become one of my everyday go-to shadows. It's actually a warmer pink in person and pretty much looks delicious when paired with peachy, bronze and pinks. This shade gives the eyes a luminous glow. I need about 2-3 layers until I'm happy with the intensity of the shade but when applied wet one swipe is all it takes. When applied with a primer, it lasts all day with no touch-ups!

5. CARGO Cosmetics Color Eye Shadow Palette in Tahiti ($28 CAD/US): The price point of these gorgeous palettes are a steal! The Tahiti palette is definitely one to have this summer. These shades ranging from olive gold to bright teal are one of this season's hottest trends. I'll be honest, I haven't worn these colours in a while. But with my basic work wardrobe, I've been inspired to wear more colour! To make it more wearable for day, mix 2 shades together one lighter and one darker and smudge a little liner into the lash line. Since these shadows have a metallic finish, opt for a more matte blush and go for a creamy lip than high gloss. The shadows are highly pigmented and only took one swipe for the colour to show. The texture is velvety-smooth and doesn't budge. As a sucker for packaging, I adore all the different designs on each palette!

6. Milani INFINITE Liquid Liner in Infinite ($5.99 USD): Milani Cosmetics has definitely opened up my eyes to drugstore brands. I am in LOVE with these liners. The black shade is my go-to liner on brides when covering up falsies. Infinite is a bright ocean blue and is the perfect shade when you want just a pop of colour on the eyes. Whether you're a fan of bright colours or not you have to admit this shade is fieerrrce! Pair this with a neutral eye, peachy cheeks and lips this summer. I find the brush firm enough to work with but I'm also used to applying liner. If you have unsteady hands, I recommend using a thin angled brush. These liners are budge proof so after it sets it is hard to remove. Use a powder shadow in a similar shade as your guideline the apply the liner over top.

Have you tried these must-haves for the summer? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em?

Guest Review: Urban Decay Star Dust Shadows

Urban Decay Star Dust Shadows ($20 USD): I was really excited to have the chance to test out Urban Decay's Stardust Shadows. To my surprise these shadows weren't pigmented at all, but UD does describe these shadows as "sheer wash of colour topped with teeny bits of sparkle...". While the packaging with its squeeze to open concept was uber cool and innovative, I was just not impressed with how sheer the colour was. I found these shadows not only lacked pigment but also had too much glitter and created fall out all over my cheeks - a definite pet peeve.

On a scale of 1 (being the least color) to 5 (being the most color) the pigmentation of Space Cowboy a simple beige color was about 2, Moon Spoon a silver shade was a 3, Diamond dog a grey/brown was the least pigmented so it was a 1 and Void a dark pewter was the most pigmented at a 4.

What I liked:
- The super cool and unique packaging.

What I disliked:
- The lack of pigment
- The glitter
- The amount of fallout

Overall, these shadows were a disappointment for me and did not live up to UD's top notch quality. I don't see myself reaching for these shadows at all even though I tried hard to love them. Sorry Urban Decay, you fell short with me on these Stardust shadows!

[Editor's note: To intensify the pigment use a cream shadow or use with a damp brush. This will also prevent fall-off. If using dry, use a firm shadow brush and pat onto your eyes rather than sweeping back and forth. This will help pack on more colour and will give less fall-off. If you like a glittery finish, mix with a transforming liquid for a sparkly eye liner!]

Have you tried these shadows? Love 'em? Hate 'em? Want 'em?

www.urbandecay.com

About Farah

"Mama Far" as she is called amongst her fellow Toronto beauty bloggers, is a talented makeup artist and founder of beauty blog, Faces By Farah. She is utterly sweet, warm and has the most gorgeous long hair! Be sure to check out her blog for great product reviews, beauty tips and her Sunday posts "You Go Girl/Boy!" where she features a must-know personality in the beauty, fashion and entertainment industry! Thank you Farah for your review! Stay tuned for more reviews from her!

http://facesbyfarah.blogspot.com

Beauty News: Urban Decay Comes To Shoppers Drug Mart!

Calling all Urban Decay fans! Makeup Junkie got word that Urban Decay will now be available at Shoppers Drug Mart Beauty Boutiques - we're still waiting to hear in how many locations across Canada.

The grand opening will take place on January 22, 2010 and UD International Makeup Artist and Worldwide Sales Director, Eric Jimenez, will be there showcasing the line's newest spring products! The NEW Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows will also be available there before anyone else gets it!

What: Shoppers Drug Mart Urban Decay Grand Opening: Spring Preview

When: January 22 - walk ins from 10-12

Appointments only from 12-6 (45 min each)

January 23 - 12-6 (by appointment only)

Where: Shoppers Drug Mart

3100 Garden Street, Whitby, ON L1R 2G8

To Book: 905-430-6967

If you're in the Durham region or feel like taking a little trip out East you should definitely stop by to get your hands on the coveted Alice in Wonderland Book of Shadows!

www.urbandecay.com

Spring Beauty Trend: Let Those Eyes Shine!

Give your eyes something to flutter about this Spring! Spring shadows are all about barely-there-shimmers to bright fun hues in sheer washes of colour. Put away the matte shadows this season because it's time to make those eyes shine!

Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in Flyin' Down To.., Samba-dy Loves Me, and Sippin' n Dippin' ($22 CDN): Crease-free, wear-resistant shadow is exactly what you need as the tempterature starts to rise (please rise soon!). I love Benefit's Cream Shadow/Liners and this season the three shimmery shades did not disappoint. L-R: Flyin' Down To... is a pretty orchid shimmer, a lovely choice to enhance hazel or green eyes. I've fallen in love this season with Samba-dy Loves Me, so appropriately named. The soft champagne-gold shimmer is such a great everyday neutral that brightens up the eye instantly. This is one colour that looks great with any shade of lip colour! Sippin' n Dippin' a metallic gold with peach undertones. If you have a lot of yellow in your skin already I would stay clear as it will make you look more sallow. Or else mix it with a contrasting shade to counteract.

Stila Precious Pearl Palette ($40 USD): Stila knows how to make a gal happy! Pretty makeup and pearls will make any girl feel fabulous. The lovely mother of pearl compact features six silky smooth iridescent eye shadows all infused with genuine crushed pearl. Pearl minimizes fine lines and leaves your skin looking youthful and radiant. It also contains healthy minerals and proteins which nourish the skin leaving it smooth and soft. All shades are highly pigmented and can be combined with one another for endless looks. The shadow colours are absolutely gorgeous and absolutely a must-have for Spring!

Urban Decay Cream Shadow in Whipped, Weeds, and Moonshine ($17 USD): If you're an Urban Decay fan then these gel-based cream shadows will be one to add to the list of faves! These weightless, silicone-based shadows will not budge all day and provide rich, blendable colour. Whipped is a golden-peach with gold micro-glitter. Weeds is a vibrant olive green with silver glitter. Moonshine is a pale silver with silver glitter. I also love the tube packaging and wand applicator. So transportable and easy to apply in a pinch! The only one drawback for me: I found the glitter finish a little strong for day and had to wipe off most of it which ended up all over my cheeks. If you're young and love glitter then you'll love it but if you're almost knockin' on 30 (ahem) save the glitter for the evening.

Have you tried these eye shadows? Love 'em? Hate 'em?

Holiday Look: Statement Lips

Ring in the New Year in a bold way! Nothing makes a statement like a kiss-me-red pout. Whether it's a siren red or a deep burgundy, there is a shade and texture for every gal!

1. Stila Paint Your Pout Red - The Talking Palette ($45 USD): Where would a makeup junkie be without Stila's fabulous talking palettes? With a press of the button and step-by-step instructions, all makeup newbies will be able to achieve the perfect red pout! This handy palette contains a lip primer, 3 red lip colour shades, and a lip brush! Custom blend for the perfect shade or wear each on their own. Dab on the lips as a stain for the day and layer on thicker for bold night time lips. I love how long-lasting the lip colours are and the primer helps prevent bleeding and feathering. Just throw this compact palette in your favourite clutch for touch-ups before the clock strikes 12!

2. Urban Decay Lipstick in Gash ($22 USD): It may not be the prettiest name but Gash is a sexy blood red! I LOVE this lipstick! This full-coverage lipstick with sheen goes on rich and smooth. I always get compliments when I wear this lipstick. It's a lovely deep shade and looks amazing with a gold or bronze eye. The packaging is just another fabulous element to these lipsticks. The tubes are made from purple metal and pierced with a mini gunmetal dagger which is used to twist the lipstick up and down. Embossed in the actual lipstick is the Urban Decay logo and a little dagger. Every eye will be drawn to this lipstick and your lips!

3. Tarte Berry Couture Rise and Shine Berrylicious Lipstain ($35 USD): If you're worried about your lip colour leaving its mark, stick to a lipstain that will last you sip after sip or smooch after smooch! This has been one of my go-to lippies for a day of shopping or a holiday party. I just love the deep wine stain it leaves on my lips. The berry lip plumping gloss is a perfect compliment but I like to use the shimmering deep mauve gloss from Tarte's Purse Your Lips over it instead. My lips can't handle the stinging sensation of a plumping gloss! Give your cheeks the same berrylicious flush as your lips with the Cheek Stain! The combo together looks so pretty and polished. The best part of Tarte products are that they are all natural so you can feel good about slicking these lovelies on!

4. Face Atelier Lip Glaze in Shiraz ($20 CAD): Still unsure if a bold lip is for you? Go shiny and sheer in a beautiful deep burgundy like Shiraz. Face Atelier Lip Glazes are super shiny like glass with a moisturizing finish. The frosted slanted tube makes the application a breeze! The colour is sheer but still noticeable. I found the gloss lasted for a while and left a nice stain on my lips after the shine had worn off. To prevent a gloss from bleeding, I like to use an invisible lip liner!

For tips on how to wear red lips check out our Makeup Junkie Holiday Makeup 101: Red Lips post!

Makeup Junkie Urban Decay Set Winner!

Many apologizes again for the late announcement - I was having some problems with my laptop but all seems good again! The winner of the 2 Urban Decay Best of Urban Sets are:

Kerry!!

Congratulations! You will be contacted via email for your mailing address. Makeup Junkie hopes you enjoy this wonderful beauty prize! Again, we thank you to everyone that left a comment! I wish everyone could win but we promise there will be more chances in the New Year for more prizes!!

Makeup Junkie "Best In Bath & Body 2008" Survey Winner!

Many apologizes again for the late announcement of the Stila and Bobbi Brown beauty prize winner! I did not realize the survey was scheduled to close at midnight and we still had readers filling out the survey. Well, without further ado the winner of the Best In Bath & Body 2008 survey is:

Denise!!

Congratulations!! We hope you will enjoy this amazing beauty prize! Makeup Junkie is a fan of both Bobbi Brown and Stila and we know you will be too!

Thank you again to everyone that has participated! We wish we could send prizes to everyone but if you weren't a contest winner we have one more prize to give away! We will be giving away Urban Decay's Best of Urban Set in Baked and Spandex! All you have to do is leave a comment with your email address saying you want it! Easy right? Winner will be announced Wednesday, December 17 at 12 pm! Good luck!

Makeup Junkie Holiday Gift Guide 2008: The Gift of Pretty Palettes!

Ready-made palettes take the guess work out of deciding what colours to match with what. Sometimes a girl just doesn't have time go through the beauty stash to create a look. Palettes are definitely convenient and offer a variety of fun looks!

Every woman should own a basic black dress, a basic blazer, and basic black pants. The ultimate basic every woman should have is Bobbi Brown's Basics Eye Palette ($52 CAD)! Love, love, love this palette! I've used this lil' lovely palette for bridal work, business events, and for nights that call for a serious smoky eye.

L-R: Navajo, Cement, Heather Mauve Shimmer Wash, and Mahogany. For a simple day look, apply Navajo all over, Cement on the lid, Heather Mauve Shimmer in the inner corner, and Mahogany as a liner. Want to bump it up a bit? Swipe Navajo all over, Cement in the crease for a subtle contour, Heather Mauve Shimmer on the lid and inner corner, and smudge Mahogany in the lash line and outer crease. For some night time drama, swipe Mahogany all over lid, into crease, and bottom lash line. Add Heather Mauve Shimmer to the inner crease and corner. Top off with loads of mascara! You can also use Cement or Mahogany as brow powders depending on your hair colour.

Another absolute basic must-have is Bobbi Brown's Basic Lip Palette ($52 CAD)! Can't decide if it's a lip gloss or lipstick day? Wear both! Swipe on a lipstick and a shiny gloss on top or wear each individually. The handy mirror and lip brush make it easy for quick touch-ups.

L-R: Posey Shimmer Lip Gloss, Naked Lip Gloss, Brownie Lip Color, Rum Raisin Lip Color. Universally flattering shades that can take you from subtle to dramatic. This palette is the perfect compliment to the Basic Eye Palette. The glosses have sheer colour and a non-sticky texture. The lipsticks go on creamy and the colour is highly pigmented and long-lasting. I love using Posey to highlight the lips! You can't go wrong with a few basics!

Additional Bobbi Brown Holiday sets:

Lip and Eye Palette: This limited-edition, double-decker palette includes new and exclusive shades of high-shimmer Metallic Eye Shadow and comfortable, long-wearing Creamy Lip Color. Comes with a Mini Eye Shadow Brush and Mini Lip Brush with cap.

Lip Gloss Trio: Tucked inside a golden copper faux-leather case you'll find three beautiful shades of gloss: a medium, golden pink; a pale glittering pink; and a pink beige with golden shimmer.

Moon Rock and Night Sky Long-wear Eye Palette: This celestial-inspired palette includes two NEW and exclusive Long-Wear Cream Shadows - the warm Gold Drop and the steely Mineral Dust - to impart a pretty shimmer to lids, Long-Wear Gel Eyeliners in Espresso Ink and the NEW, exclusive Black Topaz to beautifully define eyes.

Velvet Plum Eye Palette: The perfect day-to-night palette with everything you need to create two different eye looks. Includes a dual-ended Mini Eye Shadow/ Eye Liner Brush for professional application.

Tube Tint Sets: Our signature Tube Tints Set includes Lip Tint SPF 15 and Shimmer Lip Tint SPF 15 in four shades that flatter all complexions.

Metallic Eye Shadow: Add a festive touch to your look this season with Bobbi's limited-edition shades of Metallic Eye Shadow, featured in the Party Collection.

Glitter Lip Gloss ($25 CAD): Featured in the Party Collection. Infused with light-reflecting flecks of glitter, this gloss gives lips a high-shine and high shimmer look that's perfect for any party and evening soiree. Stay tuned for my review!

Copper Diamond Cosmetic Bag with Brushes: When space is premium, downsize with the Copper Diamond Cosmetic Bag featuring four Mini Brushes - Blush, Eye Shadow, Ultra Fine Eyeliner and Lip (with protective cap).

Glitter Lip Balm: A mix of pearl and glitter pigments make lips glisten as it moisturizes and comforts. Comes in a convenient mirrored flip top compact. Available in three shades, including new Pink Crystal featured in the latest Copper Diamond Look for Holiday.

Copper Diamond Beauty Kit: Bobbi's iconic accessory, updated for the holidays in golden copper faux-leather. This structured, multi-tiered case is sized to hold makeup and skincare essentials.

Copper Diamond Shimmer Brick ($50 CAD): Featured in "W" Magazine (Nov 2008). Sparkle this season with Bobbi's NEW Copper Diamond Shimmer Brick Compact. Five gorgeous shades — candlelight, gold, copper, beige and sand — work together to give skin a warm golden copper glow. Stay tuned for my review!

I love this concept of Stila's talking palettes! Stila Surprise and Shine - Record A Message Talking Gift Palette ($40 USD) has a great little microphone where you can record a special message! It's such a sweet little surprise for anyone. I had my lil' guy say "I love you mommy" and every time I use it I hit play just to hear his adorable voice. It's also perfect if you're traveling - you can keep that special someone close by with the hit of a button!

Packaged with a chic little ribbon, this limited edition palette includes (L-R): Nude (base - warm ivory), Wheat (lid- pearlescent beige), Espresso (liner - shimmering grey brown, and Peony (warm nude). Stila shadows are fabulous!! The textures are velvety-soft and the pigments are gorgeous! You can play around with the shades and customize to your beauty style. I love Peony Convertible Color for lips and cheeks. It's the perfect neutral. On lips, I like to add Stila Lip Glaze in Grapefruit for some yummy shine. Add a personal touch to gift-giving this Holiday!

Looking for a gift fit for a Makeup Junkie? Urban Decay's Book of Shadows ($45 USD) is the perfect gift! One of my favourites of the season, this palette comes complete with 16 eyeshadows, 8 best-sellers and 8 exclusive new shades only found in this palette! The 2 premium brushes will help you swipe on shadows like a dream and the travel size Urban Decay Eye Primer Potion will keep those shadows from creasing or fading! Urban Decay is a brand known for its cutting-edge trendy designs. You can expect a visual treat of 3D pop up UD graphics and a handy mirror so you can apply your makeup anywhere! I will have to pick up the normal size Eye Primer Potion! My shadows stay put all day, no creasing, no fading, and no smudging!

This was a hit with the ladies at the Chick Advisor Shop Crawl after-party where I did mini make-overs! The variety of colours suit any skin tone. The shadows are rich and blend smoothly onto the skin. There's a shade for every mood your in. My favourite? All of them! A must for Urban Decay junkies or an Urban Decay virgins!

Top Row: Goddess, Shattered, Absinthe, Protest, Shakedown, Roach, and Scandal
Middle Row: Best-seller Midnight Cowboy, Best-seller Baked, Smog, Sidecar, Gridlock, Perversion, and Last Call
Bottom Row: Grifter and Mayhem

Know a gal that enjoys the luxuries of a princess in one little box? Benefit Primpcess - Glamorous Eye Primping Kit ($38 CAD) is all a girl needs to get primped up and glamorous! Kit includes: boi-ing 02 concealer, creaseless cream shadow/liner in r.s.v.p., 3 powder shadows: for contouring, accenting & lining, BADgal mini mascara, eye bright instant eye brightener, brushes galore & a beauty lesson.

Top Row: Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liner in R.S.V.P., Beige shadow, Sparkling Pink Shadow, and Dark Brown Shadow
Bottom Row: boi-ing Concealer #2 and Eye Bright Instant Eye Brightner

Love Benefit's line of Creaseless Cream Shadow/Liners! R.S.V.P. is a sparkling champagne that you can apply all over as a base or use to highlight in key areas for a radiant look. The kit comes complete with a mini beauty lesson for accenting, contouring and lining the eyes with these velvety shadows. I like using the boi-ing Concealer #2 to even out the skin tone on my eyes but it's a little to light for my under eye. To make it work, I used the concealer first then applied a natural foundation over top. I've used the Eye Brightner before and I got an allergic reaction from it. I didn't use it but I've heard it works well for other women! It's the perfect little box for that glamorous girl-on-the-go!

Additional Benefit Holiday sets:

24k Sexy Gold Set ($36 CAD): With a golden embossed clutch, a sheer gold 24k lipstick & a complementing, golden loose powder to adorn her eyes & cheekbones... this gift is the ultimate status symbol! Limited edition.

Peace, Love, & Glossiness ($30 CAD): What gal wouldn't want not one gloss... but SIX glosses? These are our most coveted colors all in one special set. Perfect for the gal who changes her gloss as often as she changes her mood! Stay tuned for reviews!

Best of Benefit: Sexy Stash: Sexy stash includes Benefit's sassiest faves: thrrrob, our pulse-racing pink face powder, that gal, our brightening face primer & BADgal lash, our lavish black mascara for sexy lashes.

Best of Benefit: Beauty Uppers: These little uppers: dandelion, our brightening face powder, benetint, our rose-tinted lip & cheek stain, & you rebel lite, a defiantly different tinted moisturizer, are all wrapped & ready to go!

Being a beauty addict doesn't mean you have to have makeup scattered everywhere! Beauty Addicts brand of cosmetics provides sleek, chic, and convenient compacts for those addicts who want a simpler life. The Express Eye Shadow Quad ($35 USD) is an essential palette of beige, rose-golds, bronze and browns for casual elegance.

This palette includes a base shade, accenting colour, lid shade and liner. The colours suit any skin tone and work for a variety of beauty looks. Shadows are highly pigmented and long-lasting. Excellent palette to dress up your prettiest holiday outfit!

Compliment those eyes with the ExpressLips Quad ($28 USD)! ExpressLips is a dazzling combination of luscious textures infused with shea butter, aloe vera, Vitamin E, and a hint of wild berry essence. Layer over one another or wear on its own.

These shades of beige, rose golds, and browns will keep your lips shimmering! Textures are smooth and non-sticky. A holiday essential for gals who want subtle elegance!

Makeup Junkie Holiday Gift Guide 2008: The Gift of Rockin' Eyes!

There'll be no waiting in line for you this Holiday with Urban Decay 24/7 Travel Size Set in VIP ($29 USD)! This rockin' eye liner set includes Urban Decay's best-selling bright and tropical hues. 24/7 liners are ultra smooth, creamy and water-proof. They glide on the lids like a dream and stay put all day! The pigments are unbelievably rich and the metallic finish makes those peepers shine! These versatile liners can define the eyes with a subtle shimmering neutral shadow or applied all across the lid layered underneath a shadow for staying power and intensity.

L-R: Lucky (brilliant deep copper), Electric (bright aquamarine), Covet (peacock green), Lust (plush purple), and #1 best-selling black pencil, Zero (zealous black). All 5 liners are gorgeous and will make those eyes pop! So get your party-on and shake it into the wee hours of the morning this Holiday!

Additional Urban Decay Holiday sets:

Book of Shadows Palette ($45 USD): A palette of sixteen eye shadows: eight best-sellers and eight exclusive new shades found only in this palette. This is the largest palette Urban Decay has ever offered! Also includes 3D pop-ups, two premium brushes, and a travel size of the best-selling Eyeshadow Primer Potion. Stay tuned for my review!

Luxury Lipstick Cap ($15 USD): Urban Decay's Limited Edition Deluxe Lipstick Cap is a swanky alternative to your standard Urban Decay Lipstick Cap. This lipstick cap is definitely eye candy and a collector's item! Made of an incredibly durable material, Zamac, the Deluxe Lipstick Cap is designed to last for years! Stay tuned for my review!

Eyeshadow Vault + 6 Best-selling Eye Shadows ($96 USD): The gorgeous palette features Urban Decay artwork of metallic purple flourishes, hearts and skulls flowing from a pistol. The silky black cover is easy to clean and snaps tight with a magnetic closure. Flip it open to reveal a gigantic mirror — perfect for a tabletop makeover. Give it as a gift, or keep it for yourself. Fill up the other 10 slots with UD Shadows already in your collection. Includes:
- Goddess (glittering midnight blue)
- Uzi (metallic silver sparkle)
- Last Call (plum)
- Midnight Cowboy (pink champagne with glitter)
- Mildew (deep metallic green)
- Half Baked (subtle, lustrous bronze)

24/7 Travel Size Set of 5 - Velvet Rope ($29 USD): The Velvet Rope set features Yeyo (metallic white), 1999 (plum with teeny gold glitter), the #1 best-selling black Eye Pencil, Zero (zealous black), Bourbon (brown with teeny gold glitter), and Stash (dark green/gold).

Best of Urban Set ($32 USD): This set includes Baked Heavy Metal Glitter Liner (bronze), Half Baked Eyeshadow (subtle, lustrous bronze), Bourbon 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil (brown with teeny gold glitter), Eyeshadow Primer Potion (ultra-sheer nude eye base).

Urban Essentials ($39 USD): The eyeshadow colors are Goddess Eyeshadow (midnight blue with lots of electric-blue microglitter) and Midnight Cowboy Eyeshadow (subtle golden-beige with gold glitter). This set is the only place to get the oversized bottle of Eyeshadow Primer Potion.

Sustainable Shadow Box ($39 USD): A set of ten dynamic eyeshadows, an eyeshadow brush, and a travel-size bottle of Eyeshadow Primer Potion.

Your eyes will be inked in perfection with Stila's Eyes & Shine Smudge Pot Trio Gel Eyeliner ($32 USD)! These are for sure a must-have in my kit! The trio includes Stila's top-selling Smudge Pot shades in Black, Bronze and Gray plus a travel-size liner brush.

Each shade gives you a sultry, smoked, and smudged finish. Works amazingly layered underneath powder shadows for more depth and lasting-power and looks lovely winged out for a glamorous finish. This gel formula glides on like butta' and blends beautifully. A must for die-hard smudgy liner fans!

Additional Stila Holiday Sets:

Stila Blockbuster Set ($150 USD): A set that contains 21 classic Stila products.

Shine On Gift of Glaze ($28 USD): Vanilla (pearly nude), Brown Sugar (shimmering golden nude), Raisin (New! shimmering golden plum), Grapefruit (frosted pink), Apricot (melon nectarine), Gumdrop (New! vibrant pink). Stay tuned for my review!

Step Out And Shine - Color Collection and Clutch ($50 USD): A Sephora-exclusive color collection packed in a stylish clutch that includes the new Pomegranate Crush Lip and Cheek Stain!

Surprise and Shine - Record A Message Talking Gift Palette ($40 USD): This gift palette features a complete look - three eyeshadows and a lip and cheek color, and also lets you record a personal message. Stay tuned for my review!

Puurfect Eyes - The Talking Palette ($45 USD): A four-pan palette that features everything you need to create the perfect cat eye.

Cargo's Boogie Nights Eye Pencil Set $18 USD (mind drifting...Dirk Diggler...Mark Wahlberg...drool...) will bring back those disco nights! It is a dazzling set of 5 pencils encased in a sleek cigarette case great for on-the-go application. These shining liners have little flecks of glitter to make your eyes stand out. I don't usually like glitter liners because I find the glitter rough and falls onto my cheeks, but these pint-size liners do the opposite. The glitter flecks are very fine and the pencil glides on smoothly.

The colours are fabulously sparkly and fun! All 5 shades will suit any skin tone and any festive mood you're in!

Additional Cargo Holiday Sets:

Holiday Nights Collection ($25 USD): This set features Holiday Nights Eye Shadow Quad, Blush, Boogie Nights™ Eye Pencil as well as Face & Body Sparkle.