Review: Influenster "I Do" Vox Box

(Disclaimer: I received these products complimentary for testing and review but my very honest and detailed opinions are expressed).

Warning: Long Post…

If you take a peek around my blog, you will see that I am apart of the Influenster network. I had another blog years ago, (before blogs were popular) and I reviewed some things from Influenster. Being that I will be in a wedding next month, I was sent the “I Do” Vox Box for review. I received this box before last weekend but I wanted some time to test the products out so I can be 100% truthful. Not everyone has “money to blow” (in my Lil Wayne voice). That being said, I’ve tried almost all of the products in this box and I must say that I love everything in this box that I’ve tried. This box is great for anyone in an upcoming wedding including any bride-to-be. Check out what I think about the products below the pictures. I absolutely love trying these boxes and sharing my point of view. Tell me if you’ve tried any similar products and if you like them or trashed them!

Sahale Snacks Company makes these cashews, packaged in individual snack sizes. That makes these perfect for on the go snacking, especially if you are aspiring to live a healthy lifestyle. They have seven flavors of these snacks. I received the Pomegranate & Vanilla Cashews to test. I have to say that I was surprised at how good these were. They are guilt free and taste so unique to other flavored nuts on the market. I gave some to my hubby to try and he loved them too!! If you are a busy bride (or a part of the bridal party) or just a healthy eater and are looking for a treat, this is worth a try. I will definitely be purchasing some on my own. The flavor is light without overwhelming the cashews. I ate the whole snack pack lol. I give this product two thumbs up!

At first sight, I thought I was supposed to add this to water. Reading is fundamental lol. More on this product below…

This pain relief “powder” is made by UrgentRx. It has the consistency of finely ground sugar but a tad more powdery. Not too much powder that can cause you to choke. The packaging is very flat and fits in the palm of your hand perfectly for discreet use. You don’t need water, just pour it into your mouth. Because of the already ready-to-dissolve formula, it works a bit faster than traditional asprin. I used it for muscle pain. I recommend this for those times of the month when cramps show up. There is caffeine in this pain reliever, another ingredient commonly used in popular pain medication for women (during that time of the month). I would recommend this however, I would use caution if you have childen in the household. I won’t say this tastes great but it has a lemon lime flavor that is sweet which is what children will be drawn to. By the way, you can taste the medicine. I still give this two thumbs up!

I have horrible issues with dry skin on my hands and hang nails (peeling skin around the nail) so I was all too happy to try the next product. Here my skin looks hydrated. By the way, I have a serious tan this year that I love. Anyway, read below the next picture for more information.

This stuff is amazing!! This is one of my favorite products in the box. I have hang nails and they hurt…badly. This cream not only moisturized my skin but my hang nails were relieved of pain as a result. Even after one hand washing, my hands remained moisturized. It lives up to its claims of relieving chapped skin. A little goes a long way. The cost is $3.99 for 2 ounces and although that may not seem like enough product, you can use this and not have to buy another for about three months (educated guess). The texture is creamy but it has the slight consistency of a typical mattifying gel. This definitely gets two thumbs up!

This foundation is by a brand of foundation that I’ve never tried, Covergirl. It is the Covergirl Outlast Stay Luminous Foundation. It claims to provide luminosity and to be moisturizing to the skin. The color is what I would use in the winter months and since I have a serious tan, this color was a bit too light. I am a NC50 (MAC Cosmetics foundation reference) in the summer. The pictures for some reason show my skin a lot darker so I apologize if my complexion doesn’t look consistent with NC50. I don’t want to confuse anyone who might use these pictures as a reference for foundation color. I tested the product on my arm instead of my face. I do agree that this foundation is moisturizing. The consistency is just right for a medium coverage foundation, not too thick but not runny. The pump allows for very controlled usage and “locks” to prevent mishaps. The foundation goes on smoothly but takes a little work to blend into the skin. I used my fingers. I suggest using a Beauty Blender for use of this foundation for better application. The coverage is light to medium. As far as luminous, I see very small flecks of highlight but I will have to apply this foundation in the winter when my tan has faded to see if I notice luminosity of my skin. This foundation lasted on my arm for about 5 hours on my arm. I would venture to say you could get at least 6 hours of wear out of this foundation. I used no primer or setting powder. The finish is satin. At $11.30 a bottle, it may seem pricey but check your large value chain superstore for a cheaper price. It’s worth a shot. I’m undecided on this product. I will update this post in a few months.

The consistency is not too thick but not thin.

Let me list all the positives: gluten free, kosher, tons of fiber and protein. All reasons why I would definitely purchase this nutrition bar. It honestly tastes too good to be true. It reminds me of a rice crispy treat without the marshmallow (instead some other yummy substance) but covered in chocolate. This was my dessert. Great for those gluten intolerant/with Celiac Disease and those on the go! These are sold at Target. Two thumbs up!

Covergirl Outlast Lipstick in “Phantom Pink”

This lipstick is very moisturizing, almost like a balm. It goes on a little bit patcy but provides bold color. I would have to pair this color with a brown lip liner for personalization. My only gripe: this lipstick seems to slide off the lips. I would say it works for the wedding and pictures but after eating and drinking you’ll definitely be re-applying, maybe two or three times. Since it’s not a matte formula, this is to be expected. The smell will be all so appetizing to hubby-to-be. This lipstick smells like Starburst candy! One and a half thumbs up!

Nanoblur face moisturizer is the only product that I have not tried. I will be updating this post by Friday with my opinion.

Review: Influenster "I Do" Vox Box

(Disclaimer: I received these products complimentary for testing and review but my very honest and detailed opinions are expressed).

Warning: Long Post…

If you take a peek around my blog, you will see that I am apart of the Influenster network. I had another blog years ago, (before blogs were popular) and I reviewed some things from Influenster. Being that I will be in a wedding next month, I was sent the “I Do” Vox Box for review. I received this box before last weekend but I wanted some time to test the products out so I can be 100% truthful. Not everyone has “money to blow” (in my Lil Wayne voice). That being said, I’ve tried almost all of the products in this box and I must say that I love everything in this box that I’ve tried. This box is great for anyone in an upcoming wedding including any bride-to-be. Check out what I think about the products below the pictures. I absolutely love trying these boxes and sharing my point of view. Tell me if you’ve tried any similar products and if you like them or trashed them!

Sahale Snacks Company makes these cashews, packaged in individual snack sizes. That makes these perfect for on the go snacking, especially if you are aspiring to live a healthy lifestyle. They have seven flavors of these snacks. I received the Pomegranate & Vanilla Cashews to test. I have to say that I was surprised at how good these were. They are guilt free and taste so unique to other flavored nuts on the market. I gave some to my hubby to try and he loved them too!! If you are a busy bride (or a part of the bridal party) or just a healthy eater and are looking for a treat, this is worth a try. I will definitely be purchasing some on my own. The flavor is light without overwhelming the cashews. I ate the whole snack pack lol. I give this product two thumbs up!

At first sight, I thought I was supposed to add this to water. Reading is fundamental lol. More on this product below…

This pain relief “powder” is made by UrgentRx. It has the consistency of finely ground sugar but a tad more powdery. Not too much powder that can cause you to choke. The packaging is very flat and fits in the palm of your hand perfectly for discreet use. You don’t need water, just pour it into your mouth. Because of the already ready-to-dissolve formula, it works a bit faster than traditional asprin. I used it for muscle pain. I recommend this for those times of the month when cramps show up. There is caffeine in this pain reliever, another ingredient commonly used in popular pain medication for women (during that time of the month). I would recommend this however, I would use caution if you have childen in the household. I won’t say this tastes great but it has a lemon lime flavor that is sweet which is what children will be drawn to. By the way, you can taste the medicine. I still give this two thumbs up!

I have horrible issues with dry skin on my hands and hang nails (peeling skin around the nail) so I was all too happy to try the next product. Here my skin looks hydrated. By the way, I have a serious tan this year that I love. Anyway, read below the next picture for more information.

This stuff is amazing!! This is one of my favorite products in the box. I have hang nails and they hurt…badly. This cream not only moisturized my skin but my hang nails were relieved of pain as a result. Even after one hand washing, my hands remained moisturized. It lives up to its claims of relieving chapped skin. A little goes a long way. The cost is $3.99 for 2 ounces and although that may not seem like enough product, you can use this and not have to buy another for about three months (educated guess). The texture is creamy but it has the slight consistency of a typical mattifying gel. This definitely gets two thumbs up!

This foundation is by a brand of foundation that I’ve never tried, Covergirl. It is the Covergirl Outlast Stay Luminous Foundation. It claims to provide luminosity and to be moisturizing to the skin. The color is what I would use in the winter months and since I have a serious tan, this color was a bit too light. I am a NC50 (MAC Cosmetics foundation reference) in the summer. The pictures for some reason show my skin a lot darker so I apologize if my complexion doesn’t look consistent with NC50. I don’t want to confuse anyone who might use these pictures as a reference for foundation color. I tested the product on my arm instead of my face. I do agree that this foundation is moisturizing. The consistency is just right for a medium coverage foundation, not too thick but not runny. The pump allows for very controlled usage and “locks” to prevent mishaps. The foundation goes on smoothly but takes a little work to blend into the skin. I used my fingers. I suggest using a Beauty Blender for use of this foundation for better application. The coverage is light to medium. As far as luminous, I see very small flecks of highlight but I will have to apply this foundation in the winter when my tan has faded to see if I notice luminosity of my skin. This foundation lasted on my arm for about 5 hours on my arm. I would venture to say you could get at least 6 hours of wear out of this foundation. I used no primer or setting powder. The finish is satin. At $11.30 a bottle, it may seem pricey but check your large value chain superstore for a cheaper price. It’s worth a shot. I’m undecided on this product. I will update this post in a few months.

The consistency is not too thick but not thin.

Let me list all the positives: gluten free, kosher, tons of fiber and protein. All reasons why I would definitely purchase this nutrition bar. It honestly tastes too good to be true. It reminds me of a rice crispy treat without the marshmallow (instead some other yummy substance) but covered in chocolate. This was my dessert. Great for those gluten intolerant/with Celiac Disease and those on the go! These are sold at Target. Two thumbs up!

Covergirl Outlast Lipstick in “Phantom Pink”

This lipstick is very moisturizing, almost like a balm. It goes on a little bit patcy but provides bold color. I would have to pair this color with a brown lip liner for personalization. My only gripe: this lipstick seems to slide off the lips. I would say it works for the wedding and pictures but after eating and drinking you’ll definitely be re-applying, maybe two or three times. Since it’s not a matte formula, this is to be expected. The smell will be all so appetizing to hubby-to-be. This lipstick smells like Starburst candy! One and a half thumbs up!

Nanoblur face moisturizer is the only product that I have not tried. I will be updating this post by Friday with my opinion.

Girls Love Tea…

I’ve never been to a tea party so I thought it would be fun to dress up as if I were going to one. Today is rather gloomy at first with unpredicted and furthermore unexpected rain. I had planned on having some tea later for the rainy occasion. Anyhoo, I like this dress because as I am currently losing weight, I have a ways to go.  If you still have a little mommy pouch like I do, this dress does great to conceal those midsection issues. The ruching disguises the midsection by allowing the focus of the eye to be on detail, not “imperfections”. This happens to be a skater dress so the fit & flare of the dress elongates the waist as well as creates a slimming effect in that area. The sleeves are perfect and allows for a formal look to an informal dress. I normally, like so many other gals don’t like large floral dresses however, the flowers on this dress seem abstract. That keeps the print from having an overwhelming appearance.  The shoes are honestly comfortable. The simplicity and modern look of them balances this outfit. What would a tea party be without the hat right? I got this wide brim straw hat to keep the sun out of my face while at my garden party…except today there was no sun at first. *shrug*  Oh well! Tell me what you think of my look!!   

*dress: Asos. Hat: Target. heels: Nasty Gal. clutch/wallet: Forever 21. bracelet: Jewelmint. necklace: H&M.*

Styling How To: Glam Up Basic Garments 

Summer is officially here and the weather can get H-O-T!! Living in Michigan, eighty to eighty-five degrees is where we typically land on the thermometer plus humidity. If you want to be comfortable but stylish in hot weather, this post is for you!! I found an American Apparel romper at the Goodwill for 99 cents! (A real steal!) This romper is pretty blah on the hanger and not much to look at by itself. It can be dressed up or down obviously. You could make this romper look casual but that would be too easy so for this post, I opted to make it look a bit more glam. The color of this romper is gray and that paired with the basic design of it makes it the perfect canvas. Whenever you want an outfit to stand out, go for accessories that color contrast against the garment. The contrast creates layers but somehow is very complimentary. I paired this gray romper with flashy gold accessories as well as a leopard print scarf. The shoes I chose are snake skin print gladiator sandals for the nude appeal without actually having to wear a nude heel. The wrap part of the romper leaves much room for cleavage so I wore a skin tone camisole underneath for modesty and to avoid taking away from the romper. The gold sequin clutch was my golden goose (pun intended) so it really helped pull this outfit together. P.S. I absolutely LOVE my tan!!! Let me know what you think!! I would LOVE to hear from you all!!

{romper: thrifted. sunnies: eBay. necklace, scarf: H&M. bracelets: Aldo. shoes: Shoedazzle. clutch: Julep.}

ColourPop Lippie Stix (BG Review)

For so long, the best lippies were purchased from MAC Cosmetics, NARS, Revlon, Fashion Fair and the list goes on. As of recent, more cosmetic companies have popped up and introduced the world to new flavors sort to speak. I am a lippies junkie so when I hear of a new product that can decorate my lips, I’m excited to try it. My recent fancy is by ColourPop. They have an array of products ranging from shadows/pigments, blush/bronzers and lipsticks. I ran (figuratively) straight to the lipstick section. I purchased four colors and you can see the lip swatches below. The colors applied fairly evenly and were easy to take off. They also smear pretty easily. After about an hour, I had to reapply because I had been eating and drinking. For five bucks, I’m honestly not complaining. Drug store lipstick cost more. Would I purchase again? Absolutely! Side note, the shipping may require some patience IMO. I purchased these on May 9th and received them May 20th. I was hoping they would use USPS Priority Shipping with the 5 bucks that I paid but I digress. Tell me what you think. Have you tried these? I will be waiting on the liquid lipsticks that were released on Thursday..that I also couldn’t get my hands on!

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Designer Indulgences: Balmain Pre-Fall 2015 (Review)

Dare I say that I am already looking at fall clothing?! Ugh! I LOVE the summer and spring but in true fashionista form, I can’t help but to see what design are getting cranked out for cooler seasons. Now, rarely do I see clothing that makes me want to get out of my seat and dance but I just got back in my chair from shaking my tail feather! If you are not familiar with Balmain, please do yourself a favor and check out his designs. I, (eager to see what I could) looked through pictures from NYFW (posted online in March of this year) and was pleasantly floored by what I saw. Check out my favorite pics below and afterwards, read my review and take away….

   
  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  


 Review

One word description: BOLD

I am in pure love with this collection. The colors and the demonstrative fabrics make for shows topping fashion. I enjoyed seeing wide leg pants, flowy and popping with color. The belts are very unique and are diverting inspiration for copy cat designers to make wide belts with large buckles. The floral prints are overwhelming and yet work correctly for the fabrics they cover. This collection will definitely be my inspiration for styling this fall/winter.  

Take Away: 

If could buy everything, I would!! I can’t, so inspiration is the key.  This fall will be all about texture. Print “textures”, fabric textures and mixing textures. Satin paired with velvet, prints complimenting a solid color piece and PLAID!! Let’s not forget the floral and all of its glory. It has nicely been paired with stripes that have otherwise not been considered flattering, that of black and red. These stripes however help make the floral print stand out, I sincerely love mixing prints. I will be wearing stains, velvety, stripes, floral prints as well as bold but deep colors this fall. I plan to incorporate belts and wide leg pants in my fall wardrobe. So, what do you think of this collection? Is there anything in particular that caught your eye? Share! 

A "Cool" Weekend…

Saturday was particularly cool and I was in denial. It’s been 80 degrees all week and then…ugh. Well, I decided that I would mesh cool weather attire with a pair of shorts. The shoes that I am wearing are uber comfortable and I have had these for years and never wore them until now. I love the way they look but am contemplating selling them. I’m in a purging mood, what can I say? I love thrifting but for some reason am getting more picky about what I get. I am picking out less and less vintage. This stripe shirt is not vintage, in fact but the quality is amazing!! It is 100% silk and was so nice and cozy. I opted to wear a high curly bun to correlate with the high brow yet eclectic look. One more thing, I just discovered I need a smaller size pair of shorts…(YAY!) Let me know what you think!

{earrings: old, necklace: Jewelmint, shirt: thrifted, shorts: JC Penney, socks: gifted, shoes: Jeffrey Campbell}

A "Cool" Weekend…

Saturday was particularly cool and I was in denial. It’s been 80 degrees all week and then…ugh. Well, I decided that I would mesh cool weather attire with a pair of shorts. The shoes that I am wearing are uber comfortable and I have had these for years and never wore them until now. I love the way they look but am contemplating selling them. I’m in a purging mood, what can I say? I love thrifting but for some reason am getting more picky about what I get. I am picking out less and less vintage. This stripe shirt is not vintage, in fact but the quality is amazing!! It is 100% silk and was so nice and cozy. I opted to wear a high curly bun to correlate with the high brow yet eclectic look. One more thing, I just discovered I need a smaller size pair of shorts…(YAY!) Let me know what you think!

{earrings: old, necklace: Jewelmint, shirt: thrifted, shorts: JC Penney, socks: gifted, shoes: Jeffrey Campbell}

Shapes and Stripes…

So I didn’t think I would upload this today but I felt like it was only right. It’s part two of a itty bitty series. I decided to show how simply changing a shirt can change the “feel” of an entire look. Let me know what you think. Part one is one post below. 

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Please Standby…

I feel like my style is slowly evolving. I’m starting to want more polished pieces instead of casual and pieced.  Don’t get me wrong, I love vintage and color but I am deciding to change the way I incorporate them in my wardrobe. I’ve recently purged and I am going to do it again. I’m wanting to get staple items so that I can mix and match and get more bang for my buck. However, I’ve done some recent looks with color and vintage and I thought it would be fun to share. I’ve always been a polished girl but there’s nothing like the freedom of letting go in fashion. So here I go…..stay tuned for my ever evolving style, but in the meantime enjoy this look. I decided to do the ultimate mismatch. This look reminds me of an old television. If you’re old enough to remember when at a certain time (usually I wasn’t up for anyway) some channels would just have a standby screen? Well, that’s where my inspiration came from. Don’t laugh, lol. Hey, let life inspire you. Who says vintage has to just be clothing?   {shirt: vintage, skirt: h&m, clutch: Forever 21, shoes: Justfab, sunnies: ebay} 003 027