Review: Bare Escentuals Buxom Lips

I know we were talking about Lip Glosses before, and figured I'd drop a line to let you guys know that this is the lip gloss I bought:

Bare Escentuals - Buxom Lips in Candi - $18

I have to say...I actually don't really like it. I think it's just not the best fit for me, but I'm sure other people love it...it's obviously a big seller. When I got it, I forgot it was one of those "lip plumping" lip glosses that are supposed to make your lips more full. I'm pretty far from having Angelina Jolie lips, but I think mine are pretty full already. I'm not sure I'd actually want my lips much bigger and really, the tingling feeling of the lip gloss is rather annoying. The color is pretty nice - just a tad bit of color over your natural lip color. Anywho, if you don't want your lips to tingle the whole time the gloss is on your lips, then this is not for you. If you're a BE girl, there are non-plumping BE options. If you're interested in getting something to plump up your lips, then give it a whirl - this may be the product for you - I hear it's not as intense as other options, but good if you want a more natural option. Either way, if you're curious now, I'd just drop by Sephora (or wherever else they sell BE) and get a sample to try it out in person.

If you've tried a lip plumping lip gloss, what do you think?

NOTE: image/item sephora.com

Make-up Addiction: Bare Escentuals

One of my bridesmaids and I had plans to go bridesmaid dress shopping this weekend, and I had planned to treat her with a facial (had received two complimentary facials awhile back), but when that fell through, I decided to plan make-overs at Sephora. I love make-overs...they're so fun! The only downside is that you usually end up wanting to buy at least one or two things that you wouldn't have even thought to get before the make-over (not to mention some counters require you purchase a certain # of products). I made appointments for us for a Bare Escentuals consultation mostly because my friend is super laid-back and wasn't particular about the line we tried, and I have been extremely curious about this whole Bare Escentuals phenomenom. I've been wondering what the big deal is for a while now and have looked skeptically at all the BE products every time I shopped in Sephora. So, this weekend, I figured I'd give the line a try with a make-over since I really like to wear make-up before I buy it to make sure it meshes well with my skin.

Well, go ahead and add me to the Bare Escentuals craze because I have to say that since my make-over, I've become a big fan. My skin has always been a bit acne-prone, so I've never been a fan of foundations and powders. In fact, I've tried wearing them from time to time over the years, but it never lasts long. I buy foundation here and there only to wear it a few times and then accidentally leave it in my make-up bag forgotten. I'm always so scared that heavy make-up will break my face out, and I've never liked the feeling of foundation and/or powder on my face. If this sounds like you, too, I highly recommend you schedule an appointment for a BE consultation of your own. Bare Escentuals features mineral-based make-up that comes in powder form - even the foundation and concealer is in powder-form! To boot, the foundation contains SPF15 to help protect your skin during the day. I would have gotten the starter kit this weekend,

but I ran out of money for the month of March and you guys know I'm trying to be good and stick to my budget. Let's hope April gets here soon, b/c I'm ready for a lighter option to even out my face.

NOTE: Image/item sephora.com

Best Lip Glosses for Spring/Summer 2008

I am a lip gloss fanatic in addition to being a shopaholic. At least twice a year, I get a new lip gloss and I try my best to use it up by the end of the season (and not buy other colors). Lip glosses only stay good for so long, you know. Anywho, with all the pretty shades out there, it's been tougher and tougher to stick to just one. I went to Sephora today so a friend could pick up some samples and thank goodness I didn't have time to look around b/c I surely would have left with at least one lip gloss and probably some strange new make-up product I've never heard of before but sounds strangely fascinating.

Here are my pick for the best lip glosses for Spring 2008 and/or Summer 2008:

Bobbi Brown Nude Glitter Lip Gloss
I've been a big fan of Bobbi Brown lip gloss for about 7 years now. The gloss can be a bit thick at times, but is usually pretty moisturizing, stays on well, and comes in nice natural shades. My only complaint is that the colors are sometimes too natural looking (I guess that's her style), so if you're looking for a nice every day color, go here, but if you're looking for something more bright and fun, then I'd try elsewhere.


Korres Natural Products Love Your Lips Gift Set
I've never heard of this brand before, but saw it online at Sephora.com and thought it sounded like something I'd like to check out in person. The cherry-inspired colors caught my attention, and I like how the lip gloss contains shea butter - a great moisturizer.


Smashbox Lip Enhancing Gloss
This is the gloss I almost bought today in the color to the right of the lip gloss images - it's called "Beauty" and it's a matte, light pink color - very pretty for spring! I tried it on in the store and it looks really pretty, but I'd like to shop around some of the other lip glosses before I decide on this one for my Spring color.


Rosie Jane Lip Dew
This lip gloss is not only a pretty, sheer tone, but it is super yummy! The flavors are so tasty and the glosses go on so nicely. This gloss adds a hint of color and some shine to your favorite lip stick. The Rosie Jane Lip Dew would also be a great every-day lip gloss for when you want to look more natural while adding some yummy shine.

What's your favorite lip gloss? How many lip glosses do you buy in a year?

NOTE: Images from respective web sites

Best of the Blogs: Week Ending 3/16/08

Couture in the City's contest to win the MAC fafi contest ends tomorrow (3/17) - enter today!

Flair helps you pick the perfect bathing suit - just in time for warm weather days spent out in the sun!

ShopDiary found some bigtime brands being sold on bigtime bargains - we're talking YSL, Balenciaga, and more!

Frugal Fashionista shows you how to get another fab Rachel Bilson look on a budget. Hey, Rachel's jacket reminds me of the one I just got!

The Glam Guide has the scoop on Christian winning Project Runway

Business Casual with a Trendy Twist

So, besides a couple items I purchased that I probably shouldn't have, I've been doing pretty good with the whole budget thing. I did have one major purchase that I've been holding out on you guys to share, but that was purchased with a portion of my hard-earned bonus since I spent the rest of my bonus on my debt. Responsibility deserves a treat here and there, no? Anywho, I've been hitting up the sale racks like mad and keeping myself within a reasonable spending budget. I've also been avoiding shopping in general - trying to stay away from the mall and stuff. So far, pretty good!

This outfit features a few reasonably priced items: a full-price skirt that cost right around $50 in a classic cut - a wise investment IMO, a black sweater in a modern cut - purchased on sale and with a discount code for $50 (to be worn as a light-weight jacket), a green jersey top on final clearance for only $15 - woohoo! Anywho, I wore this Business casual outfit to a client site earlier this week and I love how the trapeze-style sweater gives this classic look a slightly trendy feel.




Camisole: The Limited
Green Jersey-Knit Top: Ann Taylor Loft
Black knit sweater: Banana Republic
Black dress skirt: Banana Republic
Peep toe linen pumps: Banana Republic

My "It Bag" for Spring 2008

Guess what came in the mail today?!


That purse I was talking about awhile back...remember? Oh yea - it's Ziordia's Brielle!

Isn't she gorge? Look at those ruffles!

Brielle is going to be my "It Bag" for Spring 2008!

This purse is one of the best purses I've seen on the web this season and the price makes it so much more affordable than other "It Bags" I've been eyeing lately. Anywho, the purse is uber soft and has all these nifty pockets inside - perfect for people like me who don't like to rummage around a big pocket-less bag.

You can get yours (or any other Ziordia purse at ziordia.com) for 10% off for the entire month of March using code ZSHOPAHOLICS10

Click here to start shopping

Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Montaigne Clutch

How cute is this Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Montaigne Clutch? I love the color options, especially the one shown here - Cassis:

$805 (photo/item eluxury.com)

It reminds me of all those vampy nail polish colors that have been so popular lately. I know dark navy is in, but I still like my dark reds and purples, too! Anywho, I think this would be a great clutch as a simple accessory to something a little on the fancy side. It's sleek and chic and would accent your outfit nicely.

Best of the Blogs: Week Ending 3/9/08

Flair does a recap of Katherine Heigl's best looks

For those who liked the pin-up shoes, you'll LOVE how The Glam Guide shows you how to get the Pin-Up look on a budget

Couture in the City has been noticing celebs rocking the color purple

Check out the video ShopDiary is featuring - the Chanel RTW 2008 runway show

NOTE: photo source not known - if you're the owner of the photo and object to its use, please email me at shopaholicd at gmail dot com and I'll take it down. Thanks!

Trend Alert: Cutout Sunglasses for Spring 2008

Designers are going cutout-crazy for Spring 2008. First, we had the cutout wedges, now we have the cutout sunglasses. Here are the best cutout sunglasses I could find on the web (for some reason they jumped from under $100 to over $300 - I couldn't find anything in between!):


Forever 21 H81 1674 Sunglasses - $9.90


Calvin Klein Open Temple Sunglasses - $58.00

*My personal fave*

Dolce & Gabbanna - $330


Tom Ford 'Whitney' Open Side Sunglasses - $360

Does anyone have a Sunglass Hut coupon so I can get those fabulous Dolce & Gabbannas??

NOTE: Images by respective sites

Fab's Massive Closet Clean-Out

Looking for a great deal in fashionable clothing and accessories? Then, check out fashion friend, Fabulously Broke in the City's Massive Closet Clean-Out (click). On her new blog, Fab lists some of her gently worn or unused goodies for sale at super-discounted prices sure to be nice on your pocket. The selection is great, the prices are better, and the money is going to a good cause...to help pay off Fab's debt.

Here are some of your options:

Statement dangling lace-like earrings with hanging beads in between - $3


Naomi Wolf: The Beauty Myth - $13


Black Lace-covered Champagne Peep Toe Heels with Bow (Size 7) - $25

Check her site often for updates and new listings!

NOTE: Photos fbcloset.blogspot.com/

Casual Chic: Stripey Button-Down

I couldn't resist this green, stripey button-down I found on a Banana Republic sale rack the other day. I've been wanting to wear more button downs, but I tend to avoid them if they're not "non-iron." Why? Well, I don't really like sleeves, but mostly I'm too lazy to iron button downs. I'm also not the best ironer (is that a word?) so, I usually just avoid the whole ordeal altogether. However, this sale top, at $30 after markdowns and my coupon, simply couldn't be passed up! I know you can't see from this photo, but it has the cutest tabs on the sleeves and the most adorable white enamel buttons. Love it!

Green, stripey button down: Banana Republic
Skinny jeans: Guess
Leather peep-toe flats: J Crew

New Name in Accessories: Ziordia

As much as I'm a fan of the big-name designers like Chanel, Dolce, Chloe, and Gucci, every once in awhile I want something a little less likely to be seen on every other arm at the mall. Luckily, new designers are emerging every day, bringing fresh looks to your attention. I'd like you to meet Ziordia - a fresh face in the world of designer accessories featuring yummy handbags and totes and clutches. Here's a little more info direct from the source:

Ziordia is a new line that was recently launched in Fall of '07 by Romar International, a 40 year-old award-winning design and development fashion firm headquartered in New York that has been recognized as a leader in design and innovation in both the apparel and accessory markets. Named after a small rustic town in the countryside of central Spain, Ziordia's Creative Director, Arlene Hildreth, chose the namesake for inspiration in design, paying tribute to her Spanish ancestry. Ziordia was created for the modern youthful and spirited women who buy for both fashion and function. The Ziordia woman loves to wear classic sexy styles and accessorize with eye catching trend pieces. She is up on pop culture, reads celebrity style magazines and the best fashion blogs. She works hard and appreciates a well designed handbag that is convenient and rich in style.


After years of listening to what customers and buyers look for in a bestselling bag, Arlene Hildreth wanted to make sure Ziordia offered a luxury bag that was unique fashion forward as well as very functional and made sense for modern busy women to carry. The inside of the bags are just as unique as the overall silhouette. In a saturated accessory market, when asked what makes the line stand apart, Arlene Hildreth said, "I spent a lot of time concentrating on offering the customer value as well as style. I have included in all bags a logo mirror, removable key fob, cell phone/PDA pockets as well as zippered front and back pockets for added security and convenience."


Peyton


Ruelle


Barcelona Amoretta (not yet available online)


Barcelona Amoretta (not yet available online)


Jorie

*Here's my personal favorite*

Brielle

Like what you see? Great! Shopaholics Anonymous readers get a VIP discount of 10% when they use ZSHOPAHOLICS10 at http://www.ziordia.com/. Offer good for the entire month of March!

Click here to start shopping! If you're lucky enough to get one, let me know. I'd be getting myself a little Brielle action if I weren't saving for my wedding! lol. Happy shopping!

NOTE: Images courtesy of ziordia.com

Trend Alert: Cutout Wedges for Spring 2008

How cool are these cutout wedges popping up for various spring shoe collections? I saw them on eluxury tonight and figured there must be more on the web. A quick web search turned up the usual - only high-priced designer versions. Why can't mainstream America keep up with the designers? It seems whenever something new and unusual hits the runway or high-end stores, it takes everyone else months, if not years to catch up? I did find a couple more wedges with cut-outs less than $100, but as I thought they were super fugly, I'll spare you the details. Here are the good ones I found:


Kors by Michael Kors - Danger Patent Wedges - $230
Super cute and pretty simple overall - it would be easy to pull off a look with these shoes...easy on the eyes...and easier on the pocket than the next two.


Sigerson Morrison - Belle - $315
Love the light and airy feel of these shoes...I'd definitely rock these with a flowy white skirt come spring...I mean, I would if I could actually afford them right now.


Stella McCartney - Crocheted Wedge - $1,095
I haven't figured out why these are so expensive, but I'm guessing that they were crocheted by a high-end consultant who charges outrageous hourly rates for their expertise crochet skills and that the material used in the crocheted part is interlaced with 20K gold...that's all I've got. What? You have a better idea? lol

NOTE: images by net-a-porter.com, shopbop.com, and neimanmarcus.com respectively

Victoria's Secret: Pink Collection for Spring 2008

Am I the only one who can't seem to make it into a Victoria's Secret without first ogling over the super-cute Pink Collection items they always place near one of the entrances? I had a $10 off coupon card today and figured I'd go pick up another bottle of Dream Angels Heavenly, which is "my SO's fave perfume." I've actually been out of the stuff for about three years now, but I keep thinking...this is his favorite perfume...he'll get it for Valentine's. But, when Valentine's rolls around sans my yummy bottle of Heavenly perfume, I know it means he's saving it for my birthday. After b-day, I think, surely, Christmas...But after a couple Valentine's, a couple birthdays, and a couple Christmases, I decided to take matters into my own hands today with my coupon card.

Of course, as soon as I walked into the Victoria's Secret store I was greeted with the cutest displays of what looked to be the softest cottons in the brightest array of fun colors. One dress in particular caught my eye - a hot pink dress. It looked something like this but with straps (cute pockets and all)

Tube Dress

On top of the dress, they have a preppy green and white stripey hoodie, which I've decided is something I need to get for this spring. Not necessarily green and white stripey, but just hoodies, really. Can a girl have too many hoodies? Anywho, it looked like this, but in green and white (obviously):

Nautical & nice hoodie

A quick turn to the right and I see these adorable stripey shorts:

Nautical & nice shorts
I don't think I like these with the matching hoodie - that's a lot of stripes...too many for me! However, the shorts are too cute. Probably too small/short to wear in public, but I could probably rock them in the Bahamas on my honeymoon! Woohoo!

Anywho, it was a good thing I didn't really have time to look b/c they had so many other cute things like pajamas which I have too many of already and more dress-like coverups and sleepwear. So addictive!

Here are some other things I'm glad I didn't have time to try on b/c they may have ended up in my shopping bag on top of the other things I shouldn't have purchased...but did.

Babydoll tunie tee and hot pink bikini (halter top and bow-tie scoop bottom)


Boyfriend Sweats

Oh, and the $10 coupon card...pretty sure I forgot to use it...sheesh! lol...At least I remembered to get my Victoria's Secret Dream Angels Heavenly perfume!

Btw - I'm reviewing this post and sorry for the overdose of pink! I just can't help myself...it's so pretty and girly! Victoria's Secret does offer other colors...promise!

NOTE: Photos victoriassecret.com

Spring 2008 Nail Polish Trends

It seems opposites attract for Spring 2008...or at least, they'll be competing for the attention of your nails this season. That's right...everyone knows that navy and hot pink are going to be hot colors for Spring 2008, but did you know that they're going to be just as hot on your nails as in your outfits?

I'm sure you've all seen the buzz over the deep, dark navy Chanel polish in Blue Satin



But have you heard about Geisha Blaze by Nubar?

While almost anyone can wear navy in an outfit, hot pink can be a more difficult color to pull off. With Geisha Blaze (click for details), a hot pink colored nail polish, you can wear a neutral-toned outfit and let your nail polish be the fun pop of color in your look. To boot, Nubar is Formaldehyde, (DBP) Phthalate, & Toulene Free so you can enjoy a healthier nail polish that your nails will thank you for. Too shy to wear hot pink on your fingernails? Hot pink is one of my fave summer colors for toenail polish and would look great with your fresh tan!

Are you a pink-aholic? Get Nubar's latest set, Bouquet (click for details and to see colors), which features eight awesome polishes in various shades of pink:


If you had to pick one nail polish color, which one would you rock?

Which Nail Polish Color Do You Prefer?
	Navy
	Hot Pink
Free polls from Pollhost.com

NOTE: Images by chanel and nubar respectively

Oscars 2008 Red Carpet Highlights

What did you guys think of the Academy Awards 2008? As always, there were some super fab looks and some not-so-hot looks. In the interest of staying positive, here are my faves:


Marion Cotillard - I heard a lot of reviews on this look that were a bit negative, but I actually liked this dress. Maybe it's the cut? Maybe b/c I like mermaids? Hmmm...


Hilary Swank - Normally, I find black dresses a tad dull on the red carpet, but there are always exceptions...like this fabulous number on Hilary. I love all the details in this one - especially the gathering and floral/leaf-y details around the shoulder - so chic!


Cameron Diaz - Just fab! She really loves to rock that long, sweeping bang look, no? Anywho, the dress is so pretty, and kinda reminds me of these beautiful C Loubs and I really like how she kept her make up muted like the pink of her dress. The cut of the dress is my fave part - all those layers and folds!

Which was your favorite look of the night?

NOTE: Images just jared dot com

Best of the Blogs: Week Ending 2/24/08

Flair shares some My Fair Lady inspired fashion finds

ShopDiary has the scoop on Pierre Hardy designing shoes for Gap

Couture in the City features some gorge pastel dresses perfect for the upcoming warm weather

And, last but not least, The Glam Guide has one of the first shots I've seen of Angelina's baby bump

NOTE: Image by Flair

A Pop of Color

Thank you everyone for your super sweet comments lately - you guys are the best! I'm sorry I haven't been able to reply to everyone's comments like I used to...it seems the closer I get to my wedding date, the crazier things become. Besides my day job, blogging, and prepping for the wedding, I've been trying to work on some new jewelry designs to help me make some money to pay for the wedding. Money is TIGHT right now, so it's a good thing I've been on a budget for awhile, but my shopping has sucked lately...haha.

Anywho, remember that sweet yellow purse I got from Banana Republic recently? I finally managed to throw a pop of color into my outfit with that purse - it was fun having a touch of bright, fun color with all the other pieces being more neutral and dark.

The other great thing about this purse is the size - it's just perfect to carry my digital camera, LV wallet, biz card holder, pen, and some lip gloss. I think I'm going to be using this purse a lot more in the next few months!

Black Top: Sweet Pea
Jeans: Banana Republic
Patent Pumps: Calvin Klein
Yellow, Satin Purse: Banana Republic
Gemstone Drop Earrings: D Celestine Limited (my jewelry!)

Sponsor Chic: Baby Shower Invite in Style

I don't know about you, but it seems like half of my friends are pregnant all of a sudden. With the ratio of pregnant friends to non-pregnant friends, you're sure to be a close friend to one of them and more than likely, have the honor of planning (or helping plan) a baby shower. Why do your baby shower invites in style with a fabulous hand-drawn invite by Cupcakes & Cocktails? Check out all the cool baby-themed drawings available:

(click to enlarge)

You could get these made into a special invitation for your friend or even yourself - how cute?

Or, perhaps you just had a fabulous baby shower - now you can thank your guests in style by getting your own thank you cards made.

Be sure to check out the Cupcakes and Cocktails for more fun designs and stationery options for your next event or "just because" card sending.

NOTE: images/drawings courtesy Cupcakes & Cocktails.

Wedding Dress Shopping

Well, I did it, friends! I got my wedding dress this past weekend! Woohoo...that's a big relief for me...but, now I have other details to worry about...like whether to have a beach or church wedding.

Anywho, here's a sneak peek:

This isn't the actual dress I got...just one I tried on. I can't post a picture of the actual dress b/c my SO reads my blogs every once in awhile, and I want it to be a surprise.

Anywho, for any engaged ladies out there...this may sound obvious, but for the wedding-clueless like me, be sure you get your dress at least 6 months before your wedding. I didn't hear that one until recently and well under 6 months away from my wedding in May.

The only thing I was disappointed with in my shopping was that there weren't more non-sleeveless options. I really wanted to get something that wasn't sleeveless, but it seems like hardly anyone makes non-sleeveless options anymore. What's up with that? You hear me wedding people? Make some more non-sleeveless dresses...give us some more options...pretty please? :)

Yellow Satin Purse for Spring 2008

Lookie what I scored at Banana Republic the other day:

With "brights" being so hot for Spring 2008 this year, I was surprised to see this super cute purse on sale several weeks ago. It was already on sale for $37.99, but I don't really need a satin, yellow purse, so I figured I'd wait it out and if it was still in the store it was meant to be. I do that a lot now - the whole meant to be thing. It helps me regulate my shopaholicism. I find it cuts back on my impulse shopping splurges and forcces me to go back for things I really, really like. Anywho, so I went back a week or so again and after a little hunting, I found my purse in a sale bin...this time for only $16.99 AND I had a couple for 10% off...SCORE!

Work Chic: Nice & Neutral

I know trends are meant to come in and out of popularity, but can this belt-around-the-waist thing just become a classic look already? I don't want it to go out of style! Accessorizing with belts is one of my favorite things to do, especially when the belt is as crisp and clean as this patent leather one I got from Nordstroms awhile back. This is what I wore to work yesterday:

Sweater: Nordstrom
Camisole: The Limited
Black Dress Skirt: Banana Republic
Tights: Belks
Knee-High Boots: Ann Taylor Loft
Earrings: D Celestine Limited - Skyline Drops