beauty – The Style Cake

2019 Favorites!!!

Posted on January 1, 2020January 27, 2020 by The Style Cake

Can’t believe it’s the year 2020! Time truly waits for no one and has flown by! This past year, I took a much needed break. I needed to focus on me.

In doing that, I had to really make some repairs to myself. I started taking full advantage of chiropractic care and really communicating with my doctor about how I wanted my healthcare to go. I was unwilling to be unheard as my health largely depended upon ME! It can be scary to not only speak up but also disagree with your doctor about the care that is being received. I had long conquered that fear because in the end, I pay for a service and refused to just go along with care that I didn’t agree with since I would be the one living with the end results.

Some things I refused to go to the doctor for. I was suffering terribly from skin issues. It seemed that no matter what I did, my skin condition worsened. I began to get frustrated as I was not even eating certain things that were known to aggravate my acne. The acne I was experiencing was cystic in nature. I sat in pain for days sometimes. My frustration increased when that wonderful time of the month rolled around, que eye rolls, I was also suffer from hormonal acne. Needless to say, I did heavy reading and research to figure some things out.

My hair was having shedding issues. Now I do have Hashimoto’s disease so the shedding can be a problem from time to time but my shedding became coupled with massive tangling and some breakage. Again, I did research and found what I needed to help.

I didn’t play in makeup much this year, I only wore makeup about 8 times this past entire year. I did make a purchase for some faves that I had run out of…I was a hostess in my big sister’s wedding so, you know how that goes…I HAD to look good! Otherwise, I made sure to focus on healing my skin. I will still share what I bought to replace my long used favorites!

I’m on a weight loss journey so I’ve been avoiding sugar and carbohydrates like my life depended on it, partly because it started to. I had gained weight due to medication and became insulin resistant. That insulin resistance made it incredibly difficult to lose ANY weight!!! When I tell you I cried (and I’m not a crier) but I swear I could have jumped out my window without opening it. I was so done. The only thing i could think of was trying the Keto ‘way of eating’ again. Honestly, Keto is not a diet to me. I’m not indulging in anything that can contribute to insulin resistance or diabetes. If you’re unsure, be sure to do your research. One thing is sure, the SAD diet (standard american diet) has the appropriate acronym. I’m not by any means telling anyone to do keto or low carb, do what works for you but please take care of your health and eat for nourishment! That being said, below I will list all of the faves I have for this past year.

I hope you have a great day, week, month and year! I’m back to go through it all with you! 💪🏾

Favorites of 2019

Health

Hair

Skin

Sports Research Vitamin K + D3 with Coconut Oil
Tumeric Powder (used to make a mask with milk, yogurt and honey)
Shea Moisture African Black Soap Problem Skin Toner
Philosophy the Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash
Tetyana Dark Spot Corrector Brightening Serum [LOVE this stuff!]

Keto/Eating

Makeup

My FAVORITE Face Primer

Posted on April 7, 2018March 26, 2018 by The Style Cake

I know, I know. It’s been soooo long since I’ve had my tail on here. I’m slowly moving back into blogging so please give me time lol. I thought since I’m making my way back, I’d let you guys in on what I’ve been loving. Now normally, I would do an entire list of favorites but that seems so impersonal sometimes. I dunno. I am WAY past due to review some products I received from Juice Beauty but I’m telling you it was worth the wait.

I generally like to really try products for quite a bit of time before I decide whether I love or hate them. That being said, I’ve been using the Juice Beauty Illuminating Primer and it is the only primer that I not only use but plan to purchase in the future. Now, coming from someone who may keep it a bit too real (so I’ve been told), that says a lot! I am helplessly in LOVE y’all!!!

So let me give y’all the scoop:

This primer feels so luxurious on the skin. It frankly reminds me more of a lotion than a primer. Primers can feel a little too silky, making you feel as if when you apply your foundation, it will slide right off your face. I actually hate primers like that. I also feel these primers give you that “hot” feeling in the summer…which brings me to my next bit of info. This primer is so light that you seriously don’t feel it on your face. If you like to “feel” your primer, this is not for you. I hate a clogged pore and I feel this primer is best for those concerned with not having an oil slick on their faces as well as for being able to maintain a great skincare routine. I am so into skincare right now so this does IT for me. It leaves a subtle glow, likely due to its iridescent, pearl-like color. I am a caramel color and this primer does not make me look ashy. Now, there have been some primer that promise to give you a glow that leave an ashy film on the face depending on the skin tone. With this primer, you get a great amount per bottle and I totally feel it’s worth the price. There are other primers that are super cheap but they just don’t measure up to this primer by Juice Beauty. You can use a liberal amount of this primer without worries. I’ve forgotten to put on moisturizer and I was still okay. There was no difference in the performance of my makeup than when I wear primer. It’s very moisturizing and has nothing but quality ingredients.

Some things to keep in mind are that you won’t get a ridiculous highlight with this primer. While it has a subtle glow, the focus is on great skin not on having a gleaming highlight. Also, this is not a primer with a super thick consistency. It’s made to feel like nothing is on the skin when you apply makeup. It’s made to be moisturizing on the skin so if you forget to wear a moisturizer or need a primer in a rush with not a lot of time for a million products, this will do the trick. The first ingredient is aloe vera. Can’t get better than that! That takes me lastly into this: it’s wonderful if you have sensitive skin! I am apart of the sensitive skin club and let me tell you, I have only been using this product under my makeup and when this bottle is done, I’ll be buying another one. I know I said my previous point was my last but I’d like to add that this is also the only primer where the quality of the bottle matches the contents and price. My bottle cap stays on. Yeah I know you’re thinking it may not be that important but the cap staying on the bottle prevents the pump nozzle from getting broken which in turns saves me headache of trying to get the darn primer out of the bottle. Plus, you’re not cheated on it looking like there’s more than there actually is.

Overall, I love this primer so much because I think all skin types can use it, even sensitive skin and it’s not a strong scent to it. The scent is barely noticeable. The bottle isn’t slippery so it won’t go flying out of your hand…that has happened to me before and you can knock someone out with a flying glass bottle. Would I recommend this primer? By now hopefully you know I certainly would! It’s a phenomenal primer and my fave of all the primers I’ve tried and I’ve tried a ton! So go ahead and get a sample of you still not convinced but let me tell you, I want paid to do this review and even if I were I’d have to tell you if I hated it. I love to spread a good word lol!

Feminine Care & Hygiene + Update!

Posted on March 27, 2017November 11, 2019 by The Style Cake

I know I have yet to talk about this subject but I think there are some girls out there that may not have anyone to share valuable information about hygiene. It doesn’t seem like there should be much to this subject but feminine care can make a huge difference in you being comfortable and healthy!

What name do you use for your lady part? Coochie? Pocketbook? Couichewa? Butterfly? The best name to call it? Vagina! The pet names are cute and all for pillow talk with your hubby but in order to get aquatinted with proper care, you may need to refer to your lady parts in the accurate name. Seems stupid but guess what? Getting used to knowing all of your private last parts will help with learning your body as well as being able to easily identify potential or existing problems. There are doctor sites as well as health organization sites that show all your parts in that delicate and private area. Be sure to get acquainted.

I’m simply going to address cleanliness and in-between-showers-care so that those parts are always “fresh” and cares for properly. So the mistake that some women make is using soap or body wash to clean the vaginal area. Unless the washes and/or soaps are pH balanced, these will cause problems after continued use. These problems can include foul smells, itching, dryness, infections and unwanted discharge that indicate issues. Our vaginas are self cleaning on the inside so there’s never a need for douching. THAT actually throws off the pH balance and wreaks havoc as you clean out the good bacteria that helps keep your vaginal area healthy!

I recommend using My Honeypot vaginal cleanser. It’s pH balanced and contains all natural ingredients that won’t harm you. It’s not your typical lathering cleanser so don’t be surprised that you don’t see tons of bubbles. Instead, it’s a foam based cleanser that leaves you refreshed without drying you out.

For those times that are in between showers, grab the wipes. I love the lavender ones…they offer a tingle and warms you up! wink You can use these to wipe off after using the restroom, during menstrual periods and/or simply to be refreshed. I love these wipes and definitely recommend them. All in all, I hope that you guys are able to try the products out and hopefully this enlightened anyone that doesn’t know how to go about feminine hygiene. If you have questions or comments please feel feel to leave them below! Talk to you soon!

Update: The Honey Pot “Moisture” seems to have been discontinued. Just as well, Target now sells this brand’s line of products (cheaper than on the company’s site) and I purchased my next bottle there. I opted for “Sensitive” to replace the first one I tried. My body has been thanking me ever since I’ve been using these products!

Click HERE to try it out for yourself!

The Style Cake 💋

#Influenster Review: E.L.F. Cosmetics

Posted on November 28, 2016November 29, 2016 by The Style Cake

I am an Influenster and this is a sponsored post where I’ve received these products for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions that are expressed are completely my own. Now on to the review…

When I saw the Eyes Lips Face brand box come on the mail I got super excited since I wanted to revisit some of their products by recommendation of an associate. I hadn’t had any E.L.F products in a few years actually. I have a product that I bought last and I had put it away in makeup storage until this past year. That product I will discuss a little later in this post. Now, let me share what I received in my Vox Box…

Makeup:

Mineral Infused Primer

Matte Lip Color

Baked Highlighter & Bronzer

Skin Care:

Hydrating Bubble Mask

Lip Exfoliator

Now let’s talk specifics. So as soon as I looked in the box my eyes were immediately drawn to the Bubble Mask. The name alone is very unique to products already on the market. I’ve never heard of a bubble mask and definitely not one sold in a drug store.

I immediately opened it and tried it. My first time use results? My skin was actually surprisingly soft and moisturized. I must admit that I didn’t have the highest expectations (even though I was excited to try this) because this product is so inexpensive. I should also note that I tried this on day where I saw over 50 people in a enclosed setting under artificial lighting. I received so many compliments about how my skin glowed! I was extremely happy with the results needless to say. Would I buy this product again? YES!

While I used my mask I decided it would be a good idea to try the Lip Exfoliator in Mint Maniac. Why not right? Well, I can say that I was expecting a much rougher texture grazing across my lips as I applied it but the mint infused in the exfoliator purposes to make up for “scrubbing” ability. This exfoliator didn’t remove any dead skin from my lips and my lips can get a bit flaky during this time of year. This product did feel moisturizing but that’s about it. Would I buy this product again? Meh, I don’t know. If I can’t find a cheaper alternative then I would buy there plenty of mint infused lip glosses on the market that have glazed and exfoliated my lips at the same time!

As I’ve tried a couple of products from the skin care line, I would actually venture out and try more. Side note: I have sensitive skin. Next things I tried are all makeup. The first being the Mineral Infused Primer. So I mentioned at the outset that I would share what product I’ve recently pulled out of my makeup stash by E.L.F and it’s the tinted Mineral Infused Primer in Radiant Glow. I love that Primer and the un-tinted Primer is no different. It keeps my makeup from looking greasy/oily and doesn’t break me out. I’ve tried quite a few primers (which is why the tinted one was stashed away) and for the price, this will be a repeat buy. Would I purchase this product? YES!

The Matte Lip Color was just okay for me. The color and the finish was not properly represented on the box that holds the product. It is described of course as having a matte finish but the finish is actually satin. Now, I’m not opposed to a satin finish however that’s not the finish that I was looking forward to seeing on my lips. That being said, if you’re looking for a long lasting lip color, look further than this product. The color appears more of a fuchsia based red than the dark almost burgundy red on the box. Since there are so many other matte lip colors on the market that are bold, this just misses the mark for me. Would I purchase this? Most likely NO!

Lastly, I was excited to see what the Bronzer/Highlighter in Bronzed Glow was all about. I’m obsessed with a nude glossy lip paired with a nice glow (not sparkle, GLOW). I can say that I’m again pleasantly surprised! This product (including the bronzer) will be used as a highlighter. The color doesn’take me look made up or like I have a fake tan/sun kissed look. This product is light on the skin and applies without looking chalky. For reference, (in the summer I wear foundation/powder colors equivalent to NC50 and NC45 in the winter) just in case you’re wondering. It’s soft and applies easily. I definitely recommend this product. It compares very well to other drugstore bronzers on the market. Would I buy this product? YES!
Overall, I am pretty satisfied in my revisiting of Eyes Lips Face products. Check them out for yourself. I wish I had a coupon code but they always run sales on the site, plus the price points are pretty low which is great for beauties on a budget. Check out the pics below and then let me know what YOU think!

The Style Cake 💋

Me wearing the highlighter below:

Lunchtime @Influenster Review of the #MarcGlowStick by @MarcBeauty (and #contest)

Posted on June 13, 2016June 13, 2016 by The Style Cake

Hi cupcakes!

I know how Mondays can be be not the most flattering day of the week to our skin so I thought this review would be right on time! I was sent the Glow Stick, a highlighter by Marc Jacobs Beauty for review but I absolutely would have purchased this product if I hadn’t gotten it as a gift!

I’m a huge fan of dewy, glowy skin so when I tried this product I was immediately a fan. Honestly, I figured I’d like it because I prefer a cream based highlighter over powder anyways. In my opinion, the powders generally have too much glitter, too powdery or are too extreme in shine leaving the skin looking more made up than a healthy glow.

This highlighter adds glow, not a glittery streak. You don’t need a lot of this product because a little goes a very long way. Although the price point may be high for some, you won’t need to repurchase for a long time. The color is yellow gold based but has a bit of opalescence to it if that makes sense. I would personally apply this highlight AFTER I’ve applied all other facial products or BEFORE applying foundation for an even more natural glow. The product blends so well so you won’t see streaks nor do you have to worry about it being too thick that it applies too heavy. Lastly, the longevity of this product was fairly good. I pretty much maintained my manufactured (lol) glow throughout the day. I think the highlight looked even more natural as the day progressed. Wanna try it for yourself? Check out Sephora!

If you have any questions let me know, let’s chat! New outfit post later but in the meantime…

Later Cupcakes! 💋

I used unedited selfie cell phone pics so you can see in “real life” how the highlighter performs.

April 2016 Favorites & Fails

Posted on May 1, 2016May 1, 2016 by The Style Cake

I know I haven’t done this in a while but it’s the very end of the month so I’m excited to share this month’s best and not-so-best things in my closet and beauty drawers. Let’s just jump into it!
…………..

1. Maybelline Fit Me (Stick Foundation)

This has been my go-to for the last approximately 6 months. Needless to say, I’ve not only worn it down but it’s been a favorite. I’ve heard many say that they didn’t like this particular foundation. While I understand the gripes (I totally get the reasons) the thing is, you’ve got to know how to work” some of these beauty products. Especially if you only paid seven or eight bucks for them. Now, I wouldn’t agree to working with higher priced items because I would assume the accompany ease of use would accompany the price. I worked the heck out of this foundation and it was worth exactly what I paid for it! It needed light powder on MY oily skin for setting. But besides that, not really any complaints.
Rating: 7/10

Repurchase: Not likely.

Reason: While I liked this foundation, I’d much rather spend my coins testing out another brand/kind. Deets on this coming soon!

Me wearing the Maybelline Fit Me Stick.

2. L’Oreal Million Lashes Mascara

I am simply in love with a poppin, plump lash. That being said I’ve been faithfully wearing lash extensions on my top lash line. On the bottom however, I have consistently reached for L’Oreal’s Million Lashes mascara. It makes my bottom lashes pop so they’re not overcome by the glamour of my lash extensions.

Rating: 8.5/10

Repurchase: Yes!

Reason: Cost effective quality!

Me with a light coating on my bottom lashes.

3. Bobbi Color Corrector (Deep Peach)

I think I may have talked about this in another favorites post but needless to say, it’s still my favorite corrector. It covers and brightens beautifully! I’ve even used it in the absence of concealer. It’s creamy and blends perfectly!

Rating: 10/10

Repurchase: Definitely!

Reason: Quality purchase. Easy creamy blending and great coverage.

4. Bare Minerals Marvelous Moxie Buttercream (Forbidden Nude)

This is by far one of my favorite glosses. In my opinion, it’s a perfect pinky-nude for just about any skin tone. The color translates a bit translucent but is definitely buildable . The formula isn’t sticky and glides onto the lips with ease. I use mine quite often and I’ve gotten great use out of it!

Rating: 9/10

Repurchase: More than likely!

Reason: Only if I find this exact color, consistency and longevity in a less expensive gloss, would I probably NOT buy this again.

5. Julep Cuticle Cream: “Your Cuticles Look Thirsty”

This is by far one of my favorite items by Julep. Traditional cuticle oil doesn’t do much for my cuticles. This keeps my skin moisturized and supple! It’s not greasy and it rubs into the skin very well.

Rating: 10/10

Repurchase: Definitely!

Reason: Worth every cent!

6. MAC Prep & Prime: Fix+

This is the last time I’ll be listing this as a favorite until further notice. I love this so much, it will always be a fave!!! This sprays allows my makeup to look natural without looking greasy. My makeup and skin become “one” with this product. Since my skin can be a bit sensitive, I’m always concerned about how my skin will react to beauty products but this has yet to treat my skin wrong. Thanks MAC!

Rating: 10/10

Repurchase: Definitely!!

Reason: I love this stuff! Worth every penny!

7. Revlon Beyond Natural Concealer (and Highlight)

This product is a staple in my makeup regime. I highlight underneath my brows with the concealer. It’s creamy and blends beautifully. I don’t use the highlight but I continue to purchase just for the concealer. The concealer also works well for the under eye area. It’s not too thick and covers well.

Rating: 9/10

Repurchase: Yes!

Reason: Great deal for the price! Great blending properties!

.
8. Red/Burgundy Lip Colors (Various Brands)

A classic lip will always and forever be a red lip. For a more sultry look, I tend to grab for burgundy lip colors. Still classy, with added sex appeal. These reds can have various tones and base colors and depending on the under tone of one’s skin and the intended look, a wide variety is available. I’ve listed the top 10 of my favorite reds.

Reds: Sephora “Always Red”, NYX “Monte Carlo”, MAC “Riri Woo”, Anastasia Beverly Hills “Heathers”.

Burgundies: The Lip Bar “Sweet Shiraz”, MAC “Sin”, Tarte “Frenemy”, NYX “Copenhagen”, Colourpop “Dalia” & “Creature”, and MAC “Vino” lip liner.

Rating: All are at least an 8/10

Repurchase: Yes to all!

Reason: I would be able to purchase Riri Woo again but Ruby Woo is the exact alternative that I already own. All the other colors provide the look in going for!

9. Nude Lip Colors (Various Brands)

Lately when I haven’t been in the mood for reds, I’ve been going to nude colors as my only alternative. Nudes can also be sultry but at the same time not overpowering of any makeup look. Nudes make any lips appear more plump. This is the only color family for lip color that I love to be glossy at times. Below I listed some of my favorite colors.

Nudes: Maybelline Define A Line “Chestnut Brown” used as a lip liner, NYX “London”, MAC “Blankety” & “Spite”.

Rating: All are 10/10

Repurchase: Definitely!

Reason: Maybelline Define a Line is indeed an eye liner but it is VERY east to apply, blends well and is perfect for my skin tone. The others also compliment my tone and are great in quality.

March Style Lusts #2

Posted on March 31, 2016 by The Style Cake

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It’s that time again…

Let’s get into this month’s second set of style lusts. I have to admit that I totally hit the ground running and shared a ton of style lusts. That being said, I am now going to share beauty lusts as well. Let’s get started!

1. Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Marine Boosting Mist

This spray is new and limited edition. Ever since I saw this I’ve been wanting to purchase it. I’m a sucker for a great facial spray because I love the way it blends and “smooths” my makeup. I hate (strong word I know but I mean it) an overly matte face, set with too much setting powder. I prefer a glowy, breezy looking face. Anyhoo, I’m itching to try this product out. Of course when I do, I will be sure to review it!!

Photo Credit: Tarte Cosmetics

2. Clean Perfume (Warm Cotton & Skin)

I am helplessly in LOVE with these two fragrances. Beyond Jo Malone fragrances, these are two of the only other fragrances I buy. One (Warm Cotton) reminds me so much of fresh clean white laundry while the other (Skin) smells slightly sweet but very calming. Both smell uncomplicated and wear nicely on the skin.

Photo Credit: Pintrest

3. Shoulder Handbags

I love a large to but as the spring starts to love in, I find myself not wanting to carry a bag as much. I mean this is the time that we love to hop around, go to events around the city and try new restaurants to name a few. Shoulder bags can be slung over the opposite shoulder for more convenience. I like the saddle bag style but I love a chic style better. Pair it with an off the shoulder ruffle top and a pair of distressed shorts for a simple but very stylish look!

Photo Credit: (coming soon)

4. Off the Shoulder Top

The shoulder and décolletage are two the most sexy areas of the body to showcase. You can be sexy, yet modest by showing off this area. Off the shoulder blouses and tops (preferably cropped) can truly show your feminine side and are effortless ways to create an outfit. I prefer a white top. Pair with a flowy maxi skirt and flat sandals for a cozy soft look!

Photo Credit: Styles Weekly

5. Gucci Horsebit Designed Heels

I’ve been wanting to buy these for about a year now I swear. These heels are self explanatory. Pair them with a skater trench dress and oversized sunglasses.

Photo Credit: www.gucci.com

After sharing these style lusts, I’m quite sure that I will be getting a couple of things on my list. I also will be getting more Clean perfume. What are your style lusts? Anything in particular you’re eager to purchase? Please share. Tomorrow, check out another outfit post!

Later Cupcakes! 💋

[True Upload] Essence Beauty Box: Fab or Fail? (Review)

Posted on December 31, 2015 by The Style Cake

Like many of the monthly boxes of marketing’s past, I was interested in a new box that hit the scene that promised to give subscribers a taste of hot and poppin items currently and to-come on the market. That being said, when I heard that Essence would be releasing a monthly subscription for those interested in testing out products seemingly catered to ethnic groups of color and curlier hair. That piqued my interest. I signed up for the service. Here I sit 2 months later (well three really) as a canceled subscriber. Why, you may ask? Short and sweet, three reasons:

(Non-unique items) In all of the two boxes that I received, most of what was in those boxes had nothing that was unique or beyond what I had already seen on the market for years. I wasn’t even remotely interested in some of the things that were sent to me. In fact, most of the things that I received I’ve tried to avoid buying for years. Honestly, I felt like I had spent my money to buy things that I promised myself I would’t spend dime on anyway. (Side eye). I guess thats the way the world works huh? One of the only thing out of both boxes that I actually liked was the sample of Smashbox Full Exposure mascara…which brings me to my next point.
(Tiny Sample Sizes) I realize the box was only $15 but you CAN get this very sample (Smashbox) for free right on the website with purchase. That is a temporary offer, however, some have gotten it free with a Sephora purchase as well. See how this point ties into the first? Well, the items are so non-unique that you can literally get them anywhere…and not pay a dime for it. I guess you are getting a deal if you would really buy the travel size at Macy’s for $9. (Insert wide eyed emoji). I mean, even the Black Radiance Lipstick was not full sized and that’s normally not more than 4 bucks! Anyhoo…
(There are “Better” Boxes) So I am not here to bash Essence at all. I don’t want to be fussed at via the internet because I am not supporting a “black owned business” because it is not black owned anyway. (Which is also beside the point). I am not supporting because I feel that there are other boxes that offer much more for a better price. My advice, try it. Everyone is different. One person’s glass may be another person’s diamond, I don’t know. I personally like the Target box better. It was half the price and I got two full sized products that retailed for more than the $15 that I paid for the Essence Beauty Box. The only problem with the Target Beauty Box is that you have to chase the releases every month. It isn’t a subscription. No problem to me because I don’t like to be tied down anyway.

Let me know if you’ve tried the box and if you have, what did you think of it? What other boxes have you tried?

(Pictures to follow…)

Style Lusts #3

Posted on December 22, 2015 by The Style Cake

Sidenote: This series had to briefly be interrupted pending personal obligations. It is now being resumed for regular weekly posts. Thank you all for being patient!!

I’m totally ready for spring at this point even though it isn’t really cold here in Michigan. That being said, excuse me on this particular post because I have my mind in the gutters of spring lol.

1. Block High Heeled Sandals:

I have been so drawn to these kind of heels lately and I have no idea why. They are so sexy!!! I bought a new pair and I can’t wait to share!! Block heels generally compliment all leg shapes and sizes and a bit more stable to walk in than skinny heels. If you aren’t sure how to chose block heels, gravitate towards open toe shoes first. Other block heels can look old fashioned if you’re not careful so grab a modern design of a sandal with a block heel. You should be good to go!!

2. White Eyeliner:

It may be a beauty faux pas but I am slightly obsessed with white liner. For some reason, I have been loving the way white liner makes the eyes pop and brighten up the face. I’ve worn white liner in the past but we all know the makeup world has advanced leaps and bounds in the past few years lol. I’m going to go ahead and do a makeup look with white liner and post it on my IG. Just a tip: if you try it, draw a really thin line on your upper lash line or dab a light wash of it in the inner corner of the eyes.

3. Colorful Printed/Sequin Jackets & Blazers:

Lately I’ve been seeing an influx of something on the fashion scene that I’ve had in my closet for years: a sequin blazer/jacket. You can actually dress down a sequin jacket. Yes!! Who knew, right?!! I absolutely love the way sequin jackets look. You don’t even have to wear it to a formal event. Throw it on with a graphic tee, jeans and barely there heels for a poppin look!! My advice: hit the thrift stores and eBay for a great vintage sequin jacket!!

4. Large Buckle Belts/Wide Belts:

Who doesn’t want a cinched waist? I know I love a cinched waist!! I think wide belts and particularly ones with large buckles will make a comeback. Technically by my standards, they’ve never gone out of style. With the perfect fit and flare dress, this type of belt adds all the extra sass. I like simple yet statement belts. Sometimes it can be the single source of the wow factor in a look!!

5. Trench Coats/Denim Jacket:

Yup!! I’m obsessed!!! I love denim dresses and trench coats nowadays. I don’t know what it is but I’ve got to get my hands on both!! Both of these will transition nicely from (warm) winter right into the fall. You can take away the boots, add open toe heels and voila!!! Instantly a hot look!! I personally love a princess cut of a trench coat and denim dress. It adds femininity to something deemed so masculine.

Fall 2015 Beauty Favorites (Pass or Purchase)

Posted on December 16, 2015 by The Style Cake

*Pictures are cellphone captures*

It has been quite some time since I’ve done my beauty/life favorites but I promise to remain consistent from here on out. That being said, I will do favorites of beauty (and other categories) seasonally. At the end of each season I will discuss and review products and share my purchase regrets as well. I decided the end of the season would be best considering that I will have tried and tested the products for a decent amount of time. I want each option to be well informed and honest. Now that the formalities” are out of the way, let’s get into what I’ve been loving this past fall.

1. Maybelline Push Up Drama Mascara:

As soon as I saw this mascara, I knew that I wanted to try it. It actually is a really decent mascara. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give this a 7. It does add volume to the lashes but the claim of pushing up the lashes is definitely a gimmick and it worked to get me to try lol. Verdict: pass on this.

2. Makeup Revolution Bronzers:

I heard about these on Youtube. I am far from being a product junkie because I’ve already come and gone through that phase. However, when I see a good product for a reasonable non over inflated price, I have to check it out at least. This brand has one of those products. Makeup Revolution’s Bronzers are the bomb diggity. They show up great, pally evenly, are not glittery and best of all they only cost 6 bucks! They stand up against higher end priced brands without effort. You can purchase from Ulta online. Verdict: Purchase.

3. Makeup Revolution Lipstick:

So we just talked about this brand’s bronzers, let’s discuss quickly their lipsticks. I bought their lipstick in Vamp and I have to say it is one of my favorite lip colors of all. The shade of the lip color fits the name so perfectly. It’s a hybrid of burgundy and plum with the perfect “neutral” undertones so that it looks good on against skin tone. The formula of the lipstick is rather slippery although it is supposed to be matte. While the lipstick is a little slippery (or satin), it is pretty long lasting. Since the piece point is low, I think it’s more than worth it. Verdict: Purchase.

4. Dr. Brandt’s Pore Eraser:

I received this as a gift from a beauty purchase a couple of months ago. It smooths the skin wonderfully and allows foundation and powder to be applied to the face evenly and flawlessly. It didn’t leave my face greasy and I have tried this product with and without moisturizer. Would I recommend this? Verdict: Purchase.

5. Bobbi Brown Peach Color Corrector:

Definitely one of my favorite products for the entire year. It’s not too thick, or thin. It applies evenly and covers a multitude of darks marks and under eye half circles. I don’t use concealer in my makeup routin to highlight my under eye area. I use this color corrector. I get brightened highlighted areas and I love the natural look of using the color correction instead of the popular layers of concealer (that is sometimes way too light). If you’re looking for a good color corrector, I recommend this one. Be prepared to spend money but…Verdict: Purchase.

6. Cucumber Face Mask:

I am a lover of the spa. Although I rarely get the opportunity to get to go to one. That being said, I like to create the spa experience at home. This mask is the loveliest most inexpensive spa style product ever! It digs deep in those pores and I personally felt refreshed after using it. My skin is a bit sensitive and this did not break me out so for a little over a dollar per packet this is a great deal! Verdict: Purchase.

7. MAC Cosmetics Vino Lip Liner:

This has been my favorite lip liner for all reds and darker vampy lip colors this fall. The pictures will show the gorgeous addition to a look this lip liner brings. Verdict: Purchase.

8. Mariah Carey “Butterfly” Perfume:

Normally in the summer, my favorite fragrance is Aquolina’s Pink Sugar. I decided to switch things up for the fall and Mariah Carey’s Butterfly perfume became that fragrance that I reached for most often. It reminds me of toasted marshmallows and a fire pit on a brisk fall day. It’s a very warm scent and is a bit mature despite the fun marshmallow base notes. This perfume is not pricey at all but after its finished I’ll be ready to move on to the next fragrance. Verdict: Pass.