April Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

I've been having some skin issues lately - mostly just dryness/redness and I'm not sure why. In April, I was all about skincare and wore minimal makeup not to cause any more irritation.

CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
I've been using this for about a month now and I really like it. The consistency is like a lotion, gel, and serum all in one. It dries pretty fast. I apply it before bed and wake up with moisturized skin.

Dr. Lipp Nipple Balm for Lips
I got this about a year ago with my Birchbox points. I rarely used it just because I didn't care for the consistency (very sticky) or scent. My lips have also been dry/flaky/red lately, so I was looking for a fix. I read many people raving about Lanolin on Reddit. As I was about to head to the store to pick some up, I remembered I had this. It has provided a lot of relief for my irritated lips - more so than any other product.

ELF HD Lifting Concealer
I'm not a huge fan of foundation, so I just wear concealer. When face redness kicks in, I need more coverage. I got this months ago but really haven't started using it until recently. Since green and red are opposites, this product camouflages my red spots nicely. Best of all, I'm using less concealer and I still don't have to mess with foundation.

Paula's Choice Resist Moisture Renewal Oil Booster
I received this in my Birchbox. I've barely made a dent in the sample and I've been using it nearly all month. I just use a drop or two on super dry areas before bed. In the morning, face redness and irritation is much more manageable.

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Color Correcting Adjust 
I've used this for a year or two. I've really been liking it in combination with the ELF HD lifting concealer. I like the silky consistency of this primer. It helps my powder products to stay on all day long.

green makeup,
-Kaitlyn

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March Favorites*

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

Benefit Rollerlash Mascara*
(sample size) I have been loving this mascara since day one. It gives the illusion of curled lashes without the lash curl curler. While I'm not a fan of the lash curler to begin with, this mascara does make my lashes feel more curled and voluminous.

Benefit They're Real! Mascara*
(pictured above) This mascara has been one of my favorites for awhile. In the past, I've only ever tried the sample size. This full-size tube is creeping up on the three-month mark and I'm starting like this mascara even more dried out a bit. I feel like it's even more thickening with the drier consistency.

Benefit Gimme Brow Tinted Brow Gel*
I have been pretty lazy when it comes to makeup lately. (It's been pretty humid lately, makeup just feels so thick.) Filling in my brows with a pencil has been the least of my worries. On days that I still want a more polished look, I've been loving this tinted brow gel. I've never used a tinted brow gel before, so I'm not sure how it compares to other brands. It's definitely easy to apply and provides good results.

Benefit obsessed,
-Kaitlyn

Disclaimer: I received all of these products for free (through promotions and giveaways); this does not influence my opinion in anyway.

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Three Days, Three Boxes

I'm still holding up pretty well with my empties budget/no-buy and concentrating on finishing products I already own. *pats self on back* The only downside to buying less is fewer products to haul and review. I accumulated three beauty boxes/bags in three days and it almost felt like a haul. I figured an unboxing/haul only made sense...

Birchbox March 2015
I really like how Birchbox now has sample choice. Don't get me wrong, I love surprises but it's nice every now and then to be able to make a decision, too. This month, I chose It's a 10! Miracle Leave-in Product; this is my HG detangler and I figured I could use a travel size. I received a sample choice confirmation and spoiler email. I was a little disappointed my box featured totally different products. Birchbox informed they ran out of inventory. Bummer!

Products:

• Benefit Watt's up! Highlighter
• Derma E Evenly Radiant Brightening Day Creme SPF 15
• Macadamia Nourishing Moisture Masque
• Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Powder Spray
• Roloxin Light Revitalizing Facial Masque Treatment (set of 2)

I already owned/tried three of these products... that has never happened to me in the history of my Birchbox experience. (Nearly four years!) On the plus side, this is probably the highest value box I've ever received - $10 for over $50 worth of product. Impressive! I'm generally always pleased with my monthly Birchbox. Birchbox is a monthly subscription service that brings you new beauty products tailored to your personal profile. Sign up here. (referral link)

Walmart Beauty Box Spring 2015
The Walmart Beauty Box is a seasonal subscription box that cost $5. (There are only 4 boxes a year, $20 in total.)

Products:

• Dove Go Fresh Mandarin & Tiare Flower Seed Body Wash (travel size)
• Garnier Miracle Sleeping Cream (foil packet)
• Lady Gaga Fame Fragrance (sample)
• Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation (foil packet)
• Neutrogena Healthy Skin Boosters Facial Cleanser (White Tea & Vitamin E) (sample)
• Nivea In-Shower Lotion (foil packet)
• Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara (full size)
• Schwarzkopf essence Ultime Omega Repair & Moisture Shampoo (travel size)
• Schwarzkopf essence Ultime Omega Repair & Moisture Conditioner (travel size)
• $14 in coupons

I'll admit I was a little confused when opening the box, nothing really screamed 'Hello spring!' to me. I'm generally always disappointed with fragrance vials - this one REALLY annoyed me since it came out 3 years ago!! (Subscription boxes normally showcase new fragrances.) However, I'm looking forward to trying everything else. The mascara alone retails for over $5.00. I'm guessing the value of this box is close to $20 plus $14 in coupons. I think this box is totally worth it if you're into drugstore products. Sign up here.

 
Whole Foods Beauty Bag
Whole Foods launched a beauty bag for beauty week. (It hit shelves March 21, 2015. This is not a subscription box. It is/was available in stores only.) The bag retailed for $18 and has a value of over $60! See more details here.

Products:

• Acure Cell Stimulating Facial Mask
• Derma E Microdermabrasion Scrub
• Gabriel Mascara
• Giovanni 2chic Blackberry & Coconut Milk Ultra-Repair Shampoo
• Hello, Beauty Bag
• Pacifica Eye Shadow Duo (or Lipstick)
• Trilogy Vital Moisturizing Cream 
• $5 off coupon for any Biosil Product

I saw this bag was being released and knew I had to have it. Three vegan skincare products (& more!) for under $20? Yes, please! I've been eying a few Giovanni products, so that caught my eye too. I would've preferred the lipstick but my local store was only offering the eyeshadow. A more neutral color eyeshadow duo would've been nice, but otherwise no complaints! I'm happy the bag is 'plain'; I'll probably actually use it instead of storing it with the all of the obnoxious printed bags companies usually giveaway. 

surprise samples,
-Kaitlyn

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February Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Jordana Easyliner for Lips in Rock n Rose
This is an oldy but goody. I keep coming back to this one. I've been loving matte lips lately. I've been wearing this on its own most of the month.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray 
I've raved about this one too many times. It's part dry shampoo, part texturizing spray - 100% genius. It smells amazing. Just try. it. This product is making me want to try everything else from Oribe.

Parlor Moisturizing Sea Salt Spray
I received this in my Birchbox. This salt spray is super fine and light - not sticky and heavy, like other salt sprays I've tried in the past. It adds texture without a ton of product buildup... win-win.

Simple Cleansing Micellar Water
I FINALLY tried Bioderma - only a small decant. But I really liked it and I was curious how other micellar waters would compare. This was sort of an impulse buy. (It was on sale and I didn't read any reviews first.) I must I say I liked Bioderma better, but the Simple one comes pretty dang close. It's a super effective makeup remover without irritation or a scent.

Wet n Wild Lipstick in Bare it All (902c)
Again, I've been loving matte lips all-month. When I didn't wear the Jordana easy liner - I wore this. It's such a pretty, natural shade.

A 'random' favorite is a storage solution! I FINALLY got my hands on the Up & Up nail polish dispenser. It has the pump dispenser lid, very similar to Zoya's Remove+. Using this huge bottle of Clinique Toner has been a hassle: it's heavy when it's full, I'm paranoid I'm going to spill it, and it doesn't even fit in my bathroom drawer. Taking off my makeup feels like such a chore sometimes; this dispenser has made my skin care routine more effective and effortless.

matte lips & texturized hair,
-Kaitlyn

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January Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

BECCA Powder Highlighter in Opal
This highlight powder has been on my wishlist for a few months. Brad got it for me for Christmas and I haven't stopped using it since. It gives the most perfect sheen and isn't chalky at all.

FAGE Total 0% Raspberry Greek Yogurt
In general, I'm not a huge fan of yogurt but I know it has a lot of benefits. Most regular yogurt always contains too much sugar for my liking. I like plain greek yogurt with toppings (granola, fruit, etc.) but I can never eat a full container of yogurt before it goes bad. These single cups always on sale for $1.00 at Kroger. I decided to give them a try. I tried about five flavors and raspberry has been my favorite so far. I like how it's the perfect amount and the bendable cup is genius. I've been eating this and Sunchips for lunch most of the month.

KOR Aura Water Bottle
This was in the Birchbox 'Sweat the Small Stuff' gift set that I gave Brad for Christmas. This water bottle has been on my wishlist for over a year. So of course, I wanted it for myself. The design is so sleek. The mouth opening is a perfect fit and makes it easy to take big gulps without spilling water all over the place. The carry lid is an awesome touch too. I'm considering buying a second one and donating all of my other water bottles.

OPI My Paprika is Hotter Than Yours
This is a perfect orange-red shade. I think it would look great on all skin tones. I wore it most of the month.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
I am so obsessed with this stuff. It's part dry shampoo, part texturizing spray, and has the best smell. I'm definitely buying a full size when this runs out. I'm looking forward to trying more Oribe products, too!

highlighters & water bottles,
-Kaitlyn


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Holiday Haul / Gift Ideas

I thought about posting this before Christmas, but I didn't want to give any spoilers for gifts of loved ones. I hope these gift ideas are helpful throughout the year or for next Christmas!

I can not rave enough about Amazon wishlist; they even have a toolbar button so you can add anything to your wishlist, not just Amazon items. I use this all year long and it's great for others to know exactly what you want for any occasion.

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Holiday Haul

A kitten was all I was really expecting but Brad gifted so much more! Brad gave me many things from my wishlist but a lot of thoughtful surprises, too:

(non-wishlist:)
• Friends Completed Boxed Series  - I kept saying I wanted to watch Friends from beginning to end. I feel like there's always so many Friends references that I never understand. I figured I would just stream it, but now I have physical DVDs and no excuses.
• Kitten - I have wanted a kitten for the longest time. We finally found a perfect match from New Beginnings Animal Rescue.
• Waiter's Wine Opener - I've always found these intimidating at restaurants or parties. Now I have one to learn! 
• Wine Rack - I kept mentioning I wanted to build or buy a wine rack. I'm excited to finally have a home for bottles of wine.

(pictured: wishlist beauty items, Winter Walmart Beauty Box, & December Pinchme Box)

(wishlist:)  
• BCBG Landon Floral Pants  
• Beautyblender blendercleanser solid
• Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Moonstone
• Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette 
• Sephora Favorites: Superstars 
• Urban Decay Naked On the Run Palette 

(photo credit: Love for Lacquer)

Sephora Favorites: Superstars had the highest priority on my wishlist. This is the ultimate gift for beauty lovers. This would be a great gift for someone transitioning from drugstore to high-end makeup, too. A few of these products I've already tried but the majority are new-to-me and I cannot wait to try. The Superstars gift set retailed at $75 and it included $225 worth of product - totally worth it! The products included are:

- Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Dark Brown (full size)
- Benefit Cosmetics POREfessional (1/3 size)
- Benefit Cosmetics They're Real Mascara In Jet Black (deluxe sample)
- Bumble And Bumble Surf Spray (half size)
- Chloè by Chloè Rollerball
- Formula X Nail Color in Ignite (full size)
- Fresh Sugar Rosè Tinted Lip Treatment (deluxe sample)
- Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil (deluxe sample)
- NARS Cosmetics Blush in Orgasm (full size)
- Smashbox Cosmetics Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 35 in Light (full size)
- Stila Cosmetics Stay All Day® Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner In Intense Black (full size)
- Urban Decay Eye Shadow in Sin (full size)

My parents got me:
• Candy 
• Gift Cards
• Hue Boot Socks in Oxblood
• Lisa Frank Pen
• Minnetonka Gray Three Layer Boots - (wishlist item) I bought the Minnetonka black ankle boots years ago and have worn them so much. These have been on my wishlist for the longest time. I'm so happy to have a pair of shoes that aren't black.
• Old Navy Fleece Pajamas
• Purex Mini Casserole Dishes - (wishlist item) I love casseroles but they always produce so much food for just two people. I wanted these to cook half the casserole immediately and then freeze the half for dinner in a week or two.

My sisters got me:
• A kitchen towel: "Cat hair - both a condiment and a fashion accessory."  
•  C.O. Bieglow Lemon Lip Balm - (wishlist item)

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For the Man

When I asked Brad want he wanted, he told me 'screwdrivers and socks'. Brad uses Amazon wishlist, too - but he doesn't update it too often. Brad has been talking about an iPad forever but didn't really 'want' one...

I gave Brad an iPad mini. (There were plenty of deals Black Friday!) He hasn't put it down since.

I also gave Brad the 'Sweat the Small stuff' gift set from Bircbhox. Luckily, there were socks in here. (haha.) I've been wanting the KOR water bottle since last year. (Yes, I stole it back from him right after Christmas.) All the other stuff in the gift set is super nice, too! The gift set retailed at $54 and has $110 worth of products! The gift set included:

-Bálla for Men Body Spray
-Baxter of California Deodorant
-Bombas Ankle Socks
-Bombas Calf Socks
-KOR Aura Water Bottle
-Quirky Wrapster
-Under Armour Trance Sackpack

My parents got Brad a complete screwdriver set and a carwash set (not pictured.)

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The Gift Card Debate

Personally, I love gift cards - they're essentially cash to use at your favorite store. However, I know some people think they're impersonal or lazy.

Tips: If you don't know where the recipient shops, go with a gas card or a gift card to your local grocery store. Add a personal item to go with the gift card - like a DIY project, your favorite candle, or your favorite food.

Brad's mom gave us gift cards in a super cute basket filled with food, a candle, kitchen items, and personal ornaments. We can't wait to use the gift cards but trying out so many new foods and items has been so neat, too!

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Gift Ideas:  

For the Beauty Experienced: I got my mom and Brad's mom a beautyblender. The beautyblender has so many good reviews of people stating the way it changed their makeup routine. I figured both of our moms have been using regular makeup sponges for years - why not give them a new tool?

For the Beauty Lover: Sephora Gift Sets (mentioned above)

For the Man: Sweat the Small Stuff Gift Set (mentioned above)

For the Preteen or Friend: a makeup kit. My youngest sister has started to get into makeup. (She even knows how to apply it - she watches as many YouTube tutorials as me.) I made her a "makeup starter kit." This would be a great idea for a friend too - give them some of your current favorite products or stuff they occasionally 'borrow' from you!

For the Teenager: techie gifts or eyeshadow palettes. I gave my younger sister an iPad cover. She really liked mine, so I got her a similar one. I also gave her the Coastal Scents Revealed palette. She wears very minimal makeup. With so many saying this is a dupe for Urban Decay's Naked palettes (my favorites), I figured it would be a great way to introduce her to more eyeshadow and create multiple looks.

For the Wino: waiter's wine opener / wine rack / wine saver  (mentioned above)

presents & ideas,
-Kaitlyn

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November Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Rimmel Show Off Lip Lacquer in Comet
I got this in a lighter color about a year ago. I liked the formula but didn't love the color. Recently, I saw the shade 'comet' at CVS for 50% plus I had a $1 off Rimmel coupon. (I paid about $2.00 for it, which makes me love it even more.) The applicator is awesome. I feel like the color suits me well. I've been wearing this almost every day.

Nuxe Reve De Miel Lip Balm (Pot & Stick)
I bought the pot form nearly a year ago. It's one of my favorite lip balms but using it in public just doesn't seem very hygienic. I was a few dollars away from free shipping on Amazon and decided to finally buy the stick. It doesn't leave a white cast, it tastes nice, and it's pretty moisturizing.

Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator
I got this in my Birchbox and have been using it weekly in the shower. I've been loving all face scrubs with microbeads, it just seems like a deeper cleaning and not abrasive. This one doesn't disappoint!

Himalayan Salt Lamp 
Long story short, I accidentally broke our bathroom lamp. It was from Ikea (we don't have an Ikea in Memphis - yet!) Not to mention, the $20 lamp is now sold out and is selling for nearly $80 on eBay. Umm, no thanks! I've been wanting a salt lamp for a few months but I couldn't think of a good place to put one. I guess it was a happy accident; I finally got a salt map! (This one, to be exact.) Salt lamps have a ton of benefits but I mostly just like how cool it looks. Plus, this one has a dimmer and has been making an awesome night light too!

orange lip balm & salt lamps,
-Kaitlyn

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October Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Beautyblender
I was lucky enough to have received the beautyblender in one of my first Birchboxes a few years ago. I used it on and off for awhile; it's been in my makeup drawer for a few months. Recently, I fell in love with this tool all over again. It blends concealer and illuminating products so effortlessly!

Benefit Gimme Brow in Light/Medium
I've never been a fan of tinted brow gels. Birchbox x Benefit sent me this and I decided to give it a try. I've been liking this on days I don't have a ton of time to do my makeup and just want a bit more brow definition.

Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet
My skin has been so dry lately with the cold weather coming in. I've been shopping my stash and trying to use up a lot of my skincare samples.  This smells awesome and has a great texture.

ELF Studio Blush Palette
I was wanting some new blushes without paying a lot. I remembered emilynoel83 reviewing these blushes, so I decided to give them a try. I got both the light and dark palettes. These palettes are cool because you can easily remove the pans from the palette and make it custom to your needs. (Two blushes from the light palette and two from the dark palette are pictured.) All of the blushes are super pigmented and have great staying power.

Jordana Easyliner for Eyes & Easyliner for Lips
I've raved about these multiple times. Through the entire month of October, Walgreens had Jordana cosmetics for 40% off; some of the colors were being discontinued and were only .59 cents a piece. I bought a few more shades that I didn't already own. These are such a good value. Best of all, they're twistable - you never have to sharpen them.

Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
I received this in my October Birchbox and started using it immediately. It's definitely helped with redness and dry skin patches. I'm contemplating purchasing the full size.

blushes & samples,
-Kaitlyn

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September Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Benefit Hoola Bronzer*
I originally got this as a deluxe sample perk from Sephora; I've been loving it to add some color to my pale face. I think it would be great for all skin tones. I've always heard so much hype about this product but it was a little too pricey for me and I was happy with my drugstore bronzers. Luckily, I won a full-sized bronzer for when I finish up this sample. (Thank you Benefit x Birchbox!)

Jordana Easyliner for Lips in Rock N' Rose
This is an oldy but goody. Recently, I've been just wearing this as an all-over lip color and topping it with a balm or gloss. It's a great shade!

Macadamia Healing Oil Spray
This is definitely in my top five favorite Birchbox samples. I've been using the Macadamia mask for years, so I was super excited to try this. (I chose it in September's Birchbox choice.)  My hair has been so soft lately and I think it's a combination of using the Macadamia mask, MoroccanOil on damp hair, and using this healing oil spray on the ends of my dry hair. The smell was a little overpowering at first but I've grown to like it.

Visiting the newly opened Birchbox SoHo Store was a life-favorite for me this month. I've been a huge Birchbox fan for over three years, so visiting the store was pretty much the only thing on my to-do list while in New York. In the store, products were organized by type, not brand - which makes it so much more convenient. I got to build my own Birchbox and purchase a few items I've been eyeing for awhile with a fun and helpful staff.

(nails: Ruffian Naked, criss-cross ring, BCBG Scarlet peplum top)

I've been loving nude nails again. Nude nail polish goes with everything, makes your fingers look longer and skinnier, and chips aren't nearly as noticeable - score!

Lately, I've been loving all things oxblood/burgundy. Every item of clothing I see in this color I end up wanting. This is such a flattering color for pale skin and dark hair. On the plus side, I'm stepping away from black and adding some color to my closet.

new samples & oxblood clothes,
-Kaitlyn

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August Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

Milani Eye Tech Liquid Eyeliner
Black eyeliner hasn't been part of my routine in years. But lately, I've been admiring winged/cat eye looks and tutorials. The flashy "NEW" writing on this product and the fact I had some CVS Extrabucks to burn encouraged me to purchase this on a whim. It's so easy to use and comes off clean, too.  The compact size was great for vacationing/traveling.

OPI Nail Polish in Coca-Cola Red
I saw this in a magazine advertisement and immediately purchased it on eBay; I've been wearing it constantly since it arrived. It's a perfect red, exactly like a Coca-Cola can. The formula is great, as always.

Suave Moroccan Infusion Dry Shampoo
I used the Suave Moroccan Shampoo (not a huge fan). However, I did the like the smell. For only $3, I decided to give this a try. It works just as good as some of my high-end dry shampoos. Not only is good for hiding oily roots, but works pretty good on clean hair to add texture and boost waves.

cat eyes & Coca-Cola cans,
-Kaitlyn

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May Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

(Pictured: Brick-o-la, Chatterbox, Crosswires, Girl About Town, Vegas Volt, Velvet Teddy, Viva Glam I)

MAC Lipsticks
My beauty routine has been super simple lately - moisturizer, concealer, mascara, maybe blush, and a lip product. Recently, I have been on a lipstick kick; I think my new, half-full 24-slot lipstick holder may have something to do with it...

Once upon a time, I was a MAC snob. (No pun intended.) I realized there are better products - both drugstore and high-end; I finally started trying other products and I sold or swapped the majority of my MAC products

However, recently, I remembered why I fell in love with MAC in the first place - their lipsticks. They're so smooth, smell awesome, and have pretty good staying power. Plus, who doesn't love the classic, grown-up packaging?

I'm happy MAC lipsticks are back in my life; they've definitely been a favorite this month.

ex-MAC snob,
-Kaitlyn

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April Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

This month, I've been loving all things CORAL.

My main two favorites are Clinique Cheek Pop in Peach Pop (also mentioned last month.) As well as Revlon Kissable Balm Stain in Rendezvous. You already know I'm a big fan of balm stains but I didn't have a coral one in my collection; I haven't quit wearing this awesome color since I purchased it.

coral craze,
-Kaitlyn









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March Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Anastasia Of Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Caramel
I am growing tired of sharpening my Prestige Brow Perfection pencil so frequently; I wanted a mechanical pencil and something more precise. After reading all the raves about this, I decided to try it out. I have been enjoying using it this month, but I'm not sure it's really worth the value.

Clinique Cheek Pops in Peach & Berry
I haven't purchased any high-end blushes in the longest time. I did some research and checked these out in person... I knew I had to have them. The packaging is compact and adorable. They're powder blushes but go on like a cream and give an awesome sheen.

Coconut Oil
I've been reading about all the uses and benefits of coconut oil for the longest time; I can't believe it has taken me this long to purchase some! So far, I've only used it as makeup remover and lotion. (Using it as a sugar scrub and hair mask are on my to-do list!) Coconut oil has been the BEST eye makeup remover I have ever used; my mascara practically melts right off after applying this; I don't think I'll ever be purchasing makeup remover ever again.

The Wet Brush
I tried the Tangle Teezer a few years ago, this is similar but much better. After breaking another cheap hair brush, I knew it was time to try something new. I watched a few YouTube videos on The Wet Brush and I was sold. Tangled hair is much more manageable with this brush, and you can use it wet or dry!

cheek pops & coconut oil,
-Kaitlyn

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February Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Balm Stains
I've been loving all balm stains this month. They're pretty moisturizing and they make applying lip color super easy. I've discovered the Wet 'n' Wild megaslicks balm stains this month - I'm a fan because they're both cheap and scentless. However, I still reach for my Revlon balm stains on a regular basis too.

I was so excited to finally find the Maybelline Dare to Go Nude Collection. It was tempting to buy everything when I first saw the untouched display but I limited myself to a few things. My favorites are the Maybelline 24 HR Color Tattoo in Nude Compliment and Maybelline Master Hi-Light in Natural. The color tattoo makes a great base for all of the shades in the Naked 3 palette. My eyeshadow doesn't budge! I've also been enjoying the Master Hi-Light - it's very similar to MAC Soft & Gentle MSF. It would make a great, cheaper highlight powder for anyone on the paler side.

Wet 'n' Wild Fergie Take on the Day Eyeshadow Primer
My NARS primer finally dried out and I wanted to try something new but not pay a ton. This had great reviews and for under $5, I decided to try it out. Surprisingly, this works just as good as the NARS primer! It's scentless, colorless, and stays put all day. It looks like I might not have to buy a high-end primer again.

bases & primers,
-Kaitlyn

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January Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Dry Shampoos
I'm definitely in a winter funk and I have been slacking when it comes to washing my hair.  I've been loving dry shampoo to hide the oiliness and add volume. I've been using both Psssst and Oscar Blandi all-month. I'm been eyeing some others from Batiste, Dove, and Suave.

J.R. Watkins Peppermint Foot Repair Salve
This has been on my wishlist for a long time. I finally cashed in some Birchbox points and decided to throw this in my cart, too. The salve takes some getting used to if you're a lotion/cream user, but it's worth it. I noticed my feet were softer after just three uses!

Revlon Highlighting Palette in Bronze Glow
I don't need another bronzer, I thought as this ending up in my basket while at CVS. I've really enjoyed using this; it provides just the right amount of color and glow when you swirl your brush in all of the colors. It's similar to Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips.. you can also use the individual colors for eyeshadow or highlight.

Ruby Wing Color Changing Nail Polish in Kitten Heels
This arrived in my January Birchbox and I haven't taken it off since. The staying power was great. No chips until Day 4-5 (miracle!) It only changed colors in the sun a few times; I think the sun has to be at just the right angle. Both the pink and red are vivid, pretty colors.

Urban Decay NAKED 3 Palette
I've tried all of the NAKED eye palettes, and this one definitely works the best for me. There are endless eye looks and all of the rose-gold shades really make green eyes pop. The quality is nothing but amazing... as usual!

peppermint feet & kitten heels,
-Kaitlyn

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December Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

eos Tangerine Medicated Lip Balm
I loved these eos "eggs" when they first came out. I quit using them just because they're so bulky. My sisters have been obsessed with these recently, so I decided to jump back on the bandwagon. This bright orange medicated one caught my eye on an end cap isle and I haven't been able to put it down since.

Lotions
I don't have one specific lotion but I am really enjoying all lotions in general, this month. With the cold weather, my skin has definitely needed some moisturizer and I'm close to finishing up quite a few bottles.

NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner in Rue Bonaparte
Years ago, I was one of those girls who would never leave the house without wearing black eyeliner. Now, I really dislike black eyeliner - it makes your eyes appear a lot smaller and sometimes even more tired looking. On the days I feel like I just really need some type of color on my waterline, I've been reaching for this liner - it makes my eyes appear a lot bigger, brighter, and more awake.

Revlon Colorburst Lacquer Balm in Coy
I was a big fan of the kissable balm stains... so you can imagine my excitement when the lacquers and matte shades finally hit stores near me. Since my lips are so dry, I'm not a fan of the matte balms - but Coy is definitely my new favorite lip product! The dark color is pretty and really suits me and the formula feels great on my lips. The tiny shimmer isn't too noticeable but gives a nice shine.

liners & lotions,
-Kaitlyn

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