Holiday Haul

I'm a nosy person and always enjoy watching "What I Got for Christmas" YouTube videos and reading blog posts, so I figured I'd share a few of the items I acquired over the month of December.

This year, I spent Christmas at my parent's house. I grew up without a fireplace, finally seeing my stocking hung properly was so nice.

It's tradition for us to receive new pajamas on Christmas eve.

My sisters know I'm into beauty products.  I received a Joico K-Pak gift set and homemade candy cane facial scrub from them.

My "big" present from Santa was a heated blanket.  I've been wanting one for awhile.  I usually stay cold and hate sleeping in a lot of layers or thick clothes so this blanket is so perfect.  Being warm helps me go to sleep a lot faster.

After Christmas is usually when all the stores offer their deals so I took advantage of the sales and got a lot of new clothes.  From BCBG, I purchased two sweaters, a shirt, leggings, and a $5 canvas tote which is probably my favorite purchase.  I'll most likely use this as my school bag next semester.

H&M had a really great sale.  Since I don't have a H&M in my city, I went a little crazy.  I mostly picked up basic layering pieces and accessories. This $15 peplum dress was the best deal.

I've been eyeing the Target + Neiman Marcus collection ever since it hit stores on December 1st.  However, I didn't think the low-quality materials with the designer labels matched the high price tags.  But after Christmas when everything finally went on sale I grabbed a few pieces.  With Target gift cards, I purchased the Marc Jacobs black scarf, and Proenza Schouler sweatshirt & iPad sleeve.

As for cosmetics, I only purchased one thing.  Unfortunately, the LUSH Cosmetics store in my city closed, so I definitely had to purchase my favorite facial scrub: LUSH Ocean Salt.  I don't have a free-standing MAC store near me, so I made sure to pack all of my empties for the Back 2 MAC program.  I much prefer eyeshadows over lipsticks (Counters only offer lipstick trade-ins.)  I choose the colors All that Glitters and Charcoal Brown.

I've heard some people treat themselves to a new item for the first of the year... maybe as a good luck charm or something to remind them self of a fresh start.  I liked the idea and decided to do the same this year.  Since my Michael Kors purse is over a year old and nearly falling apart, I knew I was going to have to purchase a new purse soon anyway.  I purchased the Rebecca Minkoff Mini M.A.C. in black with silver hardware.  It can be carried three ways, has a lot of organizing compartments, and best of all: it's much larger than I was expecting and can definitely hold all the necessities.

pajamas & Christmas sales,
-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.

Aquaphor
I forgot how much I liked Aquaphor.  I traveled over the holiday and the 40-something-tempature I was used to, changed to around 10 degrees.  Needless to say, my skin freaked out.  Aquaphor is great for any part of your body.  I mainly use it on my lips and feet.  It's a little greasy but supplies a lot of moisture.

Caudalie Lip Conditioner
I purchased this lip conditioner and a travel size cleansing water on sale (duo set - $8.00) at Sephora.  Since the lip conditioner is $12.00 on its own, I thought it was a great deal and I've been wanting to try Caudalie products for awhile.  This lip conditioner really reminds me of MAC's Lip Conditioner in scent and texture but Caudalie's wears a little bit longer.  I also really like the fact it's in the shape of a lipstick rather than a chapstick.

Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Cleansing Wipes
I've always been a fan of Olay, but I drifted away to other brands.  When Nicole raved about these wipes, I added them to my beauty wish list and purchased them as soon as I was out of my beloved Neutrogena Night Calming Wipes.  I really like the Olay wipes - they're textured and seem to get a lot more makeup off than the Neutrogena wipes.  They smell great.  Best of all, you get 30 wipes compared to most brands than usually only sell 15-25 per package.

Girls
Since I've been on winter break, I've had a lot more free time than usual and decided to watch a few different television series.  My favorite out of the few I've watched has been Girls.  In some ways, It reminds me of Sex and the City for the average Joe.  It's so funny and relatable because the majority of the things and plots in the show could actually happen to you in real life.  Get ready to laugh and cry in the same episode. There are only ten 30-minute episodes in Season 1, so you could easily catch up in no time.  Season 2 airs January 13th.  I'm very impressed with Lena Dunham's writing, directing, and acting.  The soundtrack is pretty great, too.

laughing & crying,
-Kaitlyn

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The Sock Bun

I discovered the sock bun months ago, I cut up multiple socks and still couldn't make my hair look presentable. I came to the conclusion I had too much thick, long hair and the sock bun wasn't for me.

However, a few weeks ago, I discovered the hair donut, a donut-shaped hair tool made out of mesh. Despite its large size, it only weighs .4 oz and is comfortable to wear.  I purchased the largest one I could find on eBay. (It was only $3.00, including shipping.) You can also find these at most beauty stores and even H&M. If the sock method didn't work for you either, try to get your hands on one of these. It definitely made a difference for me.

All you need is a hair elastic and sock/hair donut.  Bobby pins and water are optional, but definitely help.  A video explains it best:

What I like about the sock bun is its easiness, no heat, no products, and most importantly: you can get two hair styles (two days) from it.

Be sure to lightly spray your hair with water before forming the bun.  Wear it all day, sleep on it, wake up the next morning, remove the bun, and you have curls:

socks & donuts,
-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.

It's a 10 Miracle Leave in Product
My beloved Joico K-Pak liquid Reconstructor ran out, so I decided to give this a try.  It's excellent at detangling and has made my hair soft and moisturized.

Jordana Metal Rocks Eyeliner in Green Envy
I forgot how nice (and cheap) the Jordana brand is.  I couldn't turn down a $2.00 mechanical metallic green eyeliner.  I'm really happy with this purchase. For green eyes, wearing just this eyeliner and some mascara really makes your eyes pop with minimal effort.

Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Pink Truffle
I've had this for a little under a year now. (Original Review) I purchased a few in Pink Truffle since I loved the color so much.  I put them all aside and starting using other lipsticks.  In early November, I reached for Pink Truffle instead and have been using it since. 

TIGI Catwalk Session Series Salt Spray
(Previous Post) This is my new go-to frizz-tamer/wave-booster.

metallic eyes,
-Kaitlyn

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Beach Waves in a Bottle

Review: TIGI Catwalk Session Series Salt Spray

We all know hair scrunching is now deemed unacceptable, but we wavy-haired girls need something to boost waves and control frizz.  I think I have discovered a new Holy Grail product: TIGI Catwalk Session Series Salt Spray.

I use it on both wet and dry hair.  Either way, the results are almost as good as true beach waves.   The product is kind of sticky at first but dries to a matte texture.  I did not notice a ton of volume and shine, as promised.  However, I am still impressed my waves looked somewhat done but were not hair-spray-hard. My hair still felt light and the product didn’t cause any tangles.

I kind of think of this product as a three-in-one: waves, fragrance, and hairspray. I already mentioned the waves but let me explain the other two:

The fragrance of this product is strong. It gave me a slight headache the first day I tried it but I eventually got used to and even started to like it. I can not quite put my finger on the scent but it’s similar to a fruity summer cocktail. When I use this product, I don’t bother wearing perfume and mixing scents – I let it double as a wave-booster and fragrance.

Finally, it also worked pretty good as a hairspray.  I curl my hair with hot rollers.  My aerosol hairspray was in the back of my linen closet but the salt spray was right in front of my face – so I figured if it could boost waves, it could boost and hold curls; I was right.  My hair stayed curled for THREE days (and still looked decent after sleeping on it) thanks to this salt spray.

I really like the packaging. It's smaller in diameter than most hairsprays, so it fits more comfortably in my hand while using it, and it takes up less storage space.  The all-black bottle with silver print is really sleek and easy on the eyes.

This was the first salt spray I’ve tried, so I have no clue how it compares to other brands but I’m definitely impressed and will use this for awhile.

Product: 4/5
Value: 5/5
Packaging:5/5

Overall Rating: 5/5

Retail Price: $18.95
Retailers: Ulta, salons
Overall: It's a good product in sleek packaging but doesn't do everything it promises.

Best For: Those who have naturally wavy/curly hair and need a wave booster/tamer.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this product to a friend.

salt sprays & beach waves,
-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.   

L'Oreal Colour Riche Nail Polishes
I finally found a good drugstore polish!  These are inexpensive and good quality compared to other drugstore polishes.  The formulation was great.  The color lasted almost a week, with a few touch-ups.  I plan to pick up a few more colors.

Matrix Biolage Exquisite Oil
My hairdresser put this on my hair and it immediately felt (and smelled) so much better.  I've been using Moroccan Oil for the past months but I feel like it's starting to weigh my hair down and not work its usual magic anymore.  I'm just using a little sample of this for now, but will probably purchase the full size.  It has made my hair so shiny and soft.

OPI Nail Lacquer in So Many Clowns... So Little Time
This is a super sheer milky pink.  Unfortunately, it takes a few coats, but it looks so elegant on.


Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Tipsy
I'm loving the pigmentation and staying power of this blush.  Usually, I would touch up my blush mid-day but there's no need to now.  It claims to last 12 hours, (not sure about that.)  However, it does last 6-8 hours, which is more than I can say for most blushes.


soft hair & tipsy cheeks,
-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.   

Blistex Moisture Melt

I really thought this would be a gimmicky product.  However, I have used it daily since I've gotten it. It's very moisturizing while it last but it doesn't revive or heal dry lips.  It has little beads which release even more moisture. It feels and looks more like a gloss than a Chapstick. I also like the nice sent/taste. 

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Vertigo

I do not own any gray nail polishes.  It's more black than I was expecting but I'm still really like this shade. 

OPI Nail Lacquer in Germanicure by OPI

I purchased this last month (August Favorites) and I'm still alternating between this shade and Chanel Vertigo. 

Twistbands
After my previous blog post comparison (Remington vs. Twistband), I decided it was time to get more Twistbands.  I have really noticed less dents and breakage with using these rather than basic elastic hair ties.

Alex and Ani Positive Energy Bracelets

A customer had these bangles stacked on her wrist; I thought they were so pretty.  Immediately, I asked her the brand and did research.  Once I found out they were made from recycled material, made in the USA, and promote positive energy... I was sold.  There are a few colors and a ton of designs to choose from.  I purchased my bangles in Russian Silver. So far, I only have two but it's definitely going to be an ongoing collection for me. 

Michael Kors Lexington Watch

I have been thinking about investing in a watch for awhile.  On Instagram, Michael Kors posted a picture of the Lexington watches and I immediately knew this was the one.

Target Mossimo Keilani Lace-Up Boots
I have wanted combat boots for the longest time. I purchased a few but they were always so big at the ankle, I would have to return them.  These fit great, even at the ankle.  I've worn them quite often, they're comfortable and have held up great.

boots & bracelets,
-Kaitlyn

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Birthday Haul

My last big Sephora purchase was in April. For my birthday, I treated myself to a few products that have been on my wishlist for awhile.

I purchased: NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner in Rue Bonaparte, NARS Blush in Albatross, and Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Tipsy.  As freebies I received: Tom Ford Black Orchid Fragrance, Prada Infusion d'Iris Fragrance, Josie Maran Organic Argan Oil, Lancome Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover, and Happy Birthday Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment duo.

At the beginning of September, it was still really hot outside but too cool inside class and work, so I needed something light to go over almost all of my daily outfits.  I purchased all of these at Love Culture, my favorite is the striped one.

Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Vertigo
Alex and Ani Positive Energy Russian Silver Bangle: Buddha
Alex and Ani Positive Energy Russian Silver Bangle: Libra
Michael Kors Silver Lexington Watch

Fat Chef Wine Holder

Birthday Cards

Sushi dinner, and macarons instead of birthday cake.

The majority of these items were received as gifts or purchased with a generous employee discount.

legal eagle,
-Kaitlyn

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Remington vs. Twistband

Is there a true dupe for the beloved Twistband?

Remington any wear hair & wrist elastics 
"The elastics securely hold your hair without pulling.  They're made of stretchy, fashionable elastic that will make your updo look fabulous.  Don’t want to wear it in your hair?  Wear it on your wrist as a bracelet." - remingtonproducts.com

Twistbands
"Elastic bands tug on hair, cause headaches and can leave dents in your hair when you take it down. But with the introduction of the Twistband that is all about to change... Twistbands are pony bands and headbands made of elastic trim.  They stretch to support any hairstyle, yet are slim and sleek enough to wear on your wrist when you want to let your hair down." - thetwistband.com

I received my first Twistband a year ago in my Birchbox.  But because of my thick hair and tendency to loose and pop hair ties, I just set it aside.  I didn't want to use it, what if I loved it?  Previously $10.00 for three hair elastics (now six elastics) seemed like a lot for as fast as I went through hair ties.  I received another Twistband in May and finally decided to actually see what the hype was about.  I did see a difference... there was no pulling, dents weren't as noticeable, and the quality was a lot better than a standard hair tie.  It seems nearly impossible to break, mind you, I have a thick head of hair.  I only have two Twistbands; they've lasted quite a few months.

About a month ago, many YouTube gurus mentioned they saw Twistband dupes, the Remington any wear hair & wrist elastics, at most drugstores.  Wanting to see the dupes for myself, I searched for awhile but could never find them... after I'd given up, I found the Remington hair elastics at Wal-Mart, a 2 pack for $1.50.  Immediately, I noticed they looked like lower quality Twistbands, but I still purchased two packs.  About a week later, I found the Remington hair elastics at Target, a two-pack for $3.25.  (Now, I'm finding them everywhere mostly at the $3.00 price point.)

The any wear hair ties aren't made of a good quality elastic; it felt like these need to be wrapped around three times to completely hold a ponytail in place.  It would only go around my hair twice. (If you have thin hair, you may have better luck.)  After about 3 days of wear, the Remington hair ties completely lost their appeal - they were so stretched out and didn't look nice on my bathroom counter, much less wearing them as a bracelet:

The Winner: Twistbands  

Unfortunately, they're not true dupes.  The higher price point does mean better qualify.  (Not to mention, Twistbands are pretty simple to make.  Be sure to find high-quality elastic.  You can find handmade dupes on Etsy or eBay, or just make your own.) 

to modern day scrunchies,

-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."

Happy September! I don't know about all of you, but I'm very much ready for the fall.
In August, I didn't purchase very many new beauty products but I did find a lot of other odds and ends, mostly school related, that I'm loving.

Beauty Products

• Burt's & Bees Intense Hydration Night Cream with Clary Sage
My skin has been looking a little dull lately.  I've been using masks weekly but decided I should probably add a night cream to my skincare routine.  I had multiple coupons at CVS and didn't really know what to purchase, this was an impulse purchase I actually didn't return.  It's like a drink of cold water for your face; I can actually feel this sinking into my skin and working before bed.

• L'Oreal Voluminous Full Definition Mascara
MakeupByTiffanyD swore this was a dupe for Armani Eyes to Kill Mascara, I've never tried that mascara so I can't agree or disagree.  However, this is definitely my new favorite drugstore mascara; it really separates and lengths your lashes. 

• Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
When it comes to most skincare, I've been a high-end snob the past few years.  I've been loving the Neutrogena Night Calming Wipes for a long time now.  I spotted this remover on sale at Target for $4.00 and decided it was worth a try.  This actually works better than my beloved Clinique Take the Day Off Eye Makeup Remover.

• OPI Nail Lacquer in German-icure by OPI
I purchased this the day the Germany collection hit stores and it's the only polish I've worn all month.  It's a vampy brownish red with shimmer color, so pretty and perfect for fall!  I hope to purchase a few other colors from this collection.

Random

• Aladdin Chill Snack Pack 
Unless my classes get out early, I don't really have a lunch break.  In the past years, I'd usually just throw a few snacks into my backpack and eat those.  The majority of the snacks were ridiculously unhealthy.  I didn't want to carry around a lunchbox and nothing is worse than warm fruit in a Ziploc back.  I found this little invention on sale at Target (under $3.00.) It's a small Tupperware that has a  thin (removable) icepack which snaps into the lid.  It's easy to throw this into your backpack and enjoy cool, crisp fruit in class. (The only con: the Tupperware isn't sweat-proof.)

• Baggu reusable bags
I've been eying these bags for awhile.  When my co-worker showed up with one at work I decided it was finally time to purchase them.  (Helpful Hint: look on eBay for out of stock colors and lower prices than baggubag.com.) Though I don't actually use them at the grocery store, I do use them just to tote random stuff around, mostly to the post office and work.

• Sharpie Colored Pens
I was so happy to see an end cap full of colored Sharpie pens at most stores earlier this month. I've used Sharpie black pens for almost three years; they write so smooth.  I did limit myself to just a few colors since I had so many black ones, but I'm so glad Sharpie finally started producing bright colors.

snack packs & Sharpies,
-Kaitlyn

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