Tuesday, July 31, 2012

July Glossybox Canada


Hey Everyone! My July Glossybox just arrived at my door and I had to write up a quick post to show you the joy I found inside! For those who are not aware, Glossybox is a monthly beauty subscription, for $15 a month you receive a box full of beauty goodies, many of which are full size and well worth over the $15! For a product junkie (like myself) I highly recommend it, it allows you to try out new products without breaking the budget! 

Now that you have an idea of what the subscription is, lets get into what came in this months box!

01 - Zoya Nail Polish: I was extremely happy to see this in the box! I have been waiting for a nail polish for a while (I may have a bit of an addiction) and this was the perfect find. I have never heard of Zoya before but I just put it on my nails and its wonderful. The coverage is wonderful and the colour reminds me of Models Own Beach Party, but I only needed barely 2 coats! This product retails for $8 and I got the colour Arizona (Oh I forget to mention this is a full size product!)

02 - Alessandro International: This is a heel rescue balm, now I received a foot product before and never used it, sadly my feet have been feeling neglected and maybe this is a calling for a pedicure? I could always throw on a coat of the polish as well. Anyway, this product is 30 mL and a full size, which is 100 mL, retails for $19.95.

03 - John Frieda Go Blonder Spray: I have heard about this product, and I have only used it once, it recommends using it 3-5 times before seeing results, the only thing that bothers me about it is it works with heat, it actually says the more heat the blonder... however I fried my hair not to long ago, resulting in a pixie cut to save it... so the LOTS of heat worries me. But we shall see. This is another full size product and retails for $13.99.

04 - Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer: I actually own this product already and love it, so another one is always welcome. I got the shade Plum which is a little darker than I'd go for everyday wear BUT if I ever go out or in the fall it'll be perfect. The shimmer is almost like a balm which is also ideal to keep those lips kissably smooth. This is another full size product and retails for $5.99.

05 - Dove Softening Creme Body Wash: I love Dove body washes. This one smells divine and I used it in the shower today and my skin is thanking me for it. I am definitely adding this to my showering routine. This is another full size product (way to go Glossybox!) and retails for $5.99.

06 - Beautysoclean Sanitizer Wipes: I can see a makeup artist loving these up. However I am not too concerned about my product with this, if I ever doubt them I tend to throw them out (pink eye and such) however this would be perfect for my mascara brushes to give them a new lease on life. These are a few samples but a full pack of 48 wipes retails for $12.50.

All in all a good box. I was over the moon for the polish, so I was sold the minute I laid eyes on it. If you'd like to subscribe to Glossybox (which I highly recommend you do right now) please follow the link here. This is my personal favourite beauty box and they allow you many chances to receive a free box! Which is a nice added bonus!

Do you already subscribe to Glossybox? What'd you receive in your box?
-xx
Kelsey

DIY: Tinted Lip Balm



Hello Everyone! I am back with another fun DIY! I am loving doing these DIY's and they are perfect for those beauties on a budget. Not only do they allow you to have more of your favourite beauty products they also allow you to save a lot by making them yourself! So lets get started.

What You Need:
• Vaseline
• Eye Shadow or Blush (pick one you either don't use or is already broken)
• Jar
• Something to mix with (I used a bobby pin)

How To:
1. Fill your jar with vaseline, you may have to pat it down to make sure there aren't too many air bubbles in the jar.
2. You can either crush up an unused or old eye shadow or blush, or simply take one that is already broken (good solution for those broken products) and mix together with the vaseline.
3. Make sure the product is mixed well.
4. Enjoy! 

I made a couple different colours, one that was a little more dramatic and one that is more nude. What I love best about these tinted lip balm's is because you are using vaseline it isn't a sticky formula and it will really help with any dry spells that your lips may encounter.

I hope you enjoyed this DIY, as much as I enjoy making them! Please let us know if you'd like to see more DIY's!

-xx
Kelsey



Monday, July 30, 2012

Tip : Donating Clothing



Because I'm moving in a month (yay so excited!), I've started to go through my closet looking for things that I don't wear, and don't use.  Every year I go through my closet and get rid of things.  I like to do this because it clears space in my closet for new things, and also it's great to donate old clothing that you don't use.  I personally take most of my old and gently used (I never bring clothes with stains or holes) to Value Village.  I take them there because it's close to my house, and a portion of their sales go to support local organizations, which is great!

If you have old clothes just sitting around, clear some space and take them to your local thrift or charity shop!  To learn more about Value Village, or find one in your area, check out their website here.

-xx Sally

Saturday, July 28, 2012

A Ballet Workout


Hey Everyone! Yes I am posting twice in a day because I missed Thursday, and I want to try to make sure to post every day. I just wanted to do a quick little, lifestyle post about getting in shape.

I know how hard it is to work out and I often will try a workout and stop it after a couple of weeks, out of sheer laziness. However, while I was in high school and during my younger years I stayed fit by dancing. I was a ballerina for 15 years and that was the best workout I could of had. 

However, I haven't danced in almost 4 years and I have been wanting to get back into the groove. Now first thing first. I wanted a ballerina workout so after a little search I found a series of exercises done by ballerinas and was used for Natalie Portman when she was in Black Swan. 

It is quick and anyone can do it. Which is something I love. So if you would like to join me in this workout please leave me a comment and we can motivate each other. Here is the link to the workout: Ballet Workout.

What do you do to stay fit?

-xx
Kelsey

DIY: Wire Bow Ring




Hey Everyone! I have been searching high and low for a bow ring and haven't had much luck so I decided I'd make one. So here is a little DIY.

What You Need:
• wire ( I prefer using either 16 or 18 gauge wire )
• wire cutters
• ruler
• emery board
• nail polish cap

Instructions:
1. Begin by cutting some wire. If you are using a thicker wire so 16 gauge I recommend 7", and 5" for 18 gauge.

2. Take your nail polish cap and begin to wrap the wire around so that it is even on each side.

3. Continue to wrap the wire so that each end is on the opposite side.

4. Take the left side and begin to make a bow loop.

5. Repeat on the other side.

6. Remove the ring from the polish lid. Take the end of the first bow loop and bring it under and over the centre of the bow.

7. Voila! You now have yourself your very own bow ring!

I hope you have as much fun as I did making this! Please tweet us your photos @lbdgirls :)

-xx
Kelsey

Friday, July 27, 2012

My Perfect Nude Lipstick

Being a fair skinned person, I find it hard to find a nude lipstick that matches my peachy lips.  I've tried several different nude lipsticks but they never really matched my natural lip colour.  However a couple months ago I finally found two nude lipsticks that match my lips really well!  One is more peachy, and one is a bit more pink than the other.  I absolutely love both of them, and wanted to share them with you guys!








This Revlon Lip Butter in Creamsicle, is the perfect nude lipstick for me.  It is the perfect amount of peach, and keeps my lips moisturized all day long.











Mac's Hue lipstick is another great nude for me.  It's more pink than Revlon Lip Butter, however it isn't too pink.  I love having another nude option with a bit of colour in it.



I hope all you fair skinned girls find this helpful!  What's your favourite nude lipsticks?
-xx Sally

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

July Glymm Box



Hi everyone!  Here's my video on my July Glymm Box, you can watch it above, or on our Youtube Channel here.   To learn more about Glymm's Beauty box, check out their website here

Products Mentioned 
Salt Scrub
H2O Hydration 
PM Anti-Age
Social Butterfly Hair Perfume 
K-Pak Reveitaluxe 
25% off all Glymm Nail Polishes Coupon 
Glymm Beauty Bag

*To learn more about the products in my Glymm Box, view their products here

-xx Sally 

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

DIY: Lip Scrub


Hey Everyone! I recently did a post on "a kissable pout" and I mentioned using a lip scrub. So I figured why not do a post on how to make your own lip scrub. 

What you need:
• 1 tablespoon of sugar 
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• ½ teaspoon of olive oil
• ½ teaspoon of vaseline
• spoons 
• jar
• separate bowl to mix in

How to:
1. Start by mixing the sugar and the honey together, make sure that it is mixed well before continuing to the next step.
2. Add in the vaseline and mix it well. Make sure the scrub is an even colouring.
3. Add the olive oil and mix.
4. Scoop the scrub into your jar and seal. The scrub will be good for about a week, at this time it may start separating. 

Enjoy!

Here's to kissable lips!
-xx
Kelsey


Monday, July 23, 2012

Review : China Glaze "For Audrey"


For those of you who know me, I am a huge Tiffany fan!  I absolutely love their jewellery and the Tiffany Blue.  When I found out that China Glaze had a Tiffany Blue nail polish, I wanted to get it right away!  After a quick Google search, I found out that Sally Beauty near my house carried the nail polish.  I fell in love with the colour right away, and decided to do a review on it.

Product : China Glaze "For Audrey"

Price : $6.49 Canadian

Pros : After comparing the colour to the nail polish colour to my Tiffany Bag, it is actually a very good match for the iconic Tiffany Blue.  The nail polish is also easy to apply, requiring three coats.  I can't get enough of this colour, I am in love with it!  Even though it's a pop of colour it isn't too bright for every day wear.  The price is also great, retailing a lot less than my Essie Nail polishes.  (You can read about my Essie Nail polishes here).

Cons : I noticed that there was some chipping, however it may because I didn't apply a top coat.  Other than that, there isn't any other faults with this nail polish.

Over All :  As I said above I am in love with this nail polish, and colour.  And because I love the Tiffany Blue, I'm debating buying another one of these, because I know that I will go through this colour very quickly.

If you're interested in ordering this nail polish, you can do so here.  What's your favourite colour of nail polish ?
-xx Sally

Sunday, July 22, 2012

The Dark Knight Rises



Hey Everyone! I sadly have lost internet at my house so I am posting this from my phone so I am not sure how this will work but here we go!

I literally just got home from the cinema after watching The Dark Knight Rises and I wanted to do a wee review. Of course I do not want to ruin anything so this review will be very vague.

I am not a regular DC comic book reader but I do appreciate them and find they're wicked to read. I am however reviewing this from a non-batman comic book reader.

I have to start by saying the movie was absolutely unreal. Not only was the effects/lighting/picture perfection but the story truly adds a perfect conclusion to the trilogy. It offers many surprises, some more subtle than others. However Nolan really handled the ending with skill and attention which allowed it to leave the audience in awe and amazement. If you haven't seen the movie already I highly recommend it.

Have you seen The Dark Knight Rises? Let me know in the comments below!

-xx
Kelsey

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Product Review: EOS Lip Balm



Hey Everyone! Seeing as I have went through both of these lip balms I figured it was time for a product review. I was seeing these all over youtube a while back and I could not find them ANYWHERE. Luckily a couple of months ago I came across a bunch and I was thrilled.

Price: $4 at Walmart

Pros: I love the way these lip balms make my lips feel. I can always trust them when I am going through a rough patch. They also smell amazing, I constantly get people complimenting me because of them. Which is always a plus!

Cons: There size. They aren't ideal for throwing in your pocket when you are at work, but they are perfect to be tossed in my purse and I never loose them. Just not for pocket travel.

Final Verdict: I am definitely on a search for more flavours to try out. I have Sweet Mint and Summer Fruit currently, and I want to try a lot more, however finding them is still a bit of a pain. However if you do have access to them, definitely give them a go. 

Have you tried the EOS lip balm? Leave your response in the comments below.

-xx
Kelsey

Friday, July 20, 2012

I Love Lululemon



In my Collective Haul Video (which you can view here) I mentioned that I am in love with Lululemon!  So I figured I should film a video on my Lululemon collection.  You can view the video here, or on our Youtube channel here.  If you want to learn more about Lululemon, or simply want to view their products, be sure to check out their website.
Have a wonderful Friday everyone! 
-xx Sally 

Thursday, July 19, 2012

A Kissable Pout


Hey Everyone! Here is a little photo-tutorial on how to get a kissable pout for either every day wear or even that first date! He won't be able to resist. Enjoy!

1 - Start off with exfoliating your lips. You can either make a lip scrub at home with sugar and honey or simply head over to your local drugstore and purchase one. This will leave your lips free from any dry skin.

2 - After exfoliating, just like your face, moisterize. Any old lip chap will do, I am using eos' sweet mint that I got at Walmart for $4.

3 - Take your highlighter or even your concealer and trace around your lips. This will highlight the area and make your lips look fuller. Remember to blend it in well so it looks natural. I am using the highlighter end of my Soap & Glory Arch de Triumph brow shaper which I got for £8 at Boots.

4 - Use either your favourite lip stick or lip stain to add colour to your lips. I chose a stain because it lasts longer and won't come off onto your date. I am using Revlon Just Bitten in the colour Victorian which I got at Walmart for $6.

5 - This is optional, I just finished the look with a light gloss that isn't sticky to add a nice natural shine to the lips. I am using No7 Nourishing Lip Shine which I got at Boots for £5.50 (with £5 voucher).

6- Voila! You're finished!

Happy Kissing!

-xx
Kelsey

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Tip : Making Your Foundation Last Longer!


I actually picked up this tip while watching Nikki Phillippi's apartment tour (you can visit her Youtube Channel here).   She was mentioned a cool trick she had picked up to get the most out of your setting spray, and make your foundation last even longer.  Since it's the middle of summer and it's stinkin' hot in Southern Ontario, I figured this would be the perfect time to share this foundation trick.

Setting Spray : Mac Fix + (retails $20 Canadian)

Step One : On a clean face apply your favourite daily moisturizer or lotion.  I personally use Marcelle's Essential Oil Free Multi Defence Lotion*.

Step Two : Once your lotion is applied, spray your setting spray of choice all over your face.  Be sure to let it dry before continuing on with Step Three.

Step Three : Apply your favourite foundation (or BB Cream - I use Marcelle's BB Cream*), blush, bronzer, eyeshadow, etc.

Step Four : After you are completely finished you make up, spray your setting spray once more.

And that's simply it!  I find by spraying the setting spray both before and after your foundation is the key to making it last longer.  I find my BB Cream lasts 8 hours plus, even in this hot weather!  What is your trick to making your foundation last longer?
-xx Sally

*To read more about my Marcelle's lotion and BB Cream, you can read my blog post on them here.

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Product Review: Maybelline Mega Plush Mascara




Hey Everyone! I recently did a tutorial on a summer date night look and I said how much I adore this mascara! Now I know I said that I don't usually rave about mascaras, but this one has changed my mind. Now let me tell you why.

Price: $6 at Walmart

Pros: For one the price is right where I like it, I don't like to spend a whole lot of money on mascara since I go through it rapidly. However the biggest pro for me has to what the formula and brush does to my lashes. It has one of the biggest brushes I have ever seen and this allows it to really lift the lashes and make them look naturally really long and full.

Cons: I honestly can't say I have one... I'm too in love with this product.

Final Verdict: If you haven't tried this and are in need of a new mascara go out and pick this one up. It is the best mascara I have ever tried and I have so many compliments on my eyes when I am literally only wearing mascara! It's amazing.

Have you given this product a try? Let me know in the comments.

-xx
Kelsey


Monday, July 16, 2012

Sleek Palette Review

While Kelsey was in England (you can read her blog post about her trip here) she picked me up a Sleek Eye shadow palette.  I've had it for a few weeks now, and I've been using it almost every day so I figured it was about time I did a review on it for all of you!

Product : Sleek Storm Palette

Price : 8 Pounds

Pros : I love all of the colours that they've included in this palette, 3 matte shades and 9 shades with some glitter.  I also love that there is a great range of neutral colours, and some other not so neutral colours, which are all very pigmented. I find the colours last around 8 hours which is a huge plus, and they are also really easy to take off.  (I can't stand when I have to scrub an eye shadow off).  They've also included a HUGE mirror in the palette which is great if you're on the go.

Cons : The biggest con I would have to say is that you can't seem to purchase any Sleek products in Canada.  The only other con I can think of, and it's a small one, is that the brush that they've included is hopeless.  It doesn't work at all, but that isn't a huge thing because I prefer to use my own brushes anyways.

I am absolutely in love with this palette and have been using it more than my Mac eye shadows because I love it so much.  The cheaper price doesn't hurt either! If you want to view more Sleek Products you can visit their website here. What's your favourite Sleek product ?
- xx Sally

Sunday, July 15, 2012

Make-up Tutorial - Summer Date Night




Hey Everyone! So I am very excited to share my first makeup tutorial with all of you. I had the day off today and it is very rainy outside so I decided I would play around with my makeup and filmed a tutorial. I am very happy with how it turned out, and I hope you enjoy it. My best friend Jessica helped me figure out a name for it and we decided to call it "Summer Date Night". Also if you do this look please send me a photo on our twitter because I would love to see it!




Here is a list of products that I used for this look:

Spa Resource and ELF brushes
MUA "Immaculate Collection" Eye Shadow Pallet
Maybelline Stiletto Liquid Eyeliner
Annabella Black Eye Shadow
Maybelline Mega Plush Mascara
Garnier BB Cream in Light to Medium
Boxx Concealer in Melina
Maybelline Fit Me Pressed Powder in 120
Pur Minerals Bronzer
Pandoras Face Blush in St. Tropez
Revlon Lip Butter in Creme Brulee

The majority of the products are drugstore products, aside from a select few that I got in my glossybox. I greatly enjoyed filming the tutorial and writing this post so if you would like to see more tutorials please send me requests because I would be happy to do them!

Have a wonderful day!

-xx
Kelsey





Saturday, July 14, 2012

Getting To Know Us

Hey Everyone!

So Sally and I filmed a little video (and by little I mean 15 minutes) for all of you so that you could get to know the real us. We combined the 13 personal questions TAG and the about me TAG, to get all the questions for our video. All the questions will be listed below the video, as well as links to our songs and youtubers! Enjoy!






Links from the video:


Songs:

Let's Get Lost by Bat For Lashes and Beck

You and I by Ingrid Michaelson

Kingdom Come by The Civil Wars

Rain is a Good Thing by Luke Bryan

Youtubers:

Fashionrocksmysocks

Essiebutton

Sprinkleofglitter

Giogoshow


Zoella280390

Fabulousonabudget


Hope you enjoyed this video and we would love to see you do it as well. So please leave it as a video response or link it in the comments below!

-xx
Kelsey







Friday, July 13, 2012

Bloggers I Heart

Today's post was supposed to be about my new Lululemon scarf I recently got (I mention it in my Collective Haul video), however time has simply gotten away from me and I haven't be able to prepare.  So instead I'm going to do a quick post on bloggers that I heart. These are people who I love reading and / or watching their youtube videos!

Fashion Rocks My Socks : She was the first person I subscribed to on youtube, and I love watching her videos and reading her blog.  She always has great ideas for both fashion and beauty. She has both a youtube account, and a blog.

Sprinkle of Glitter : I love watching her videos, they always cheer me up!  She also has a fantastic blog where she talks about beauty, fashion, and being a mother. She has both a youtube account and a blog.

Zoella : Soon after watching Louise's videos I got hooked on watching Zoe's videos and reading her blog as well!  She has an amazing style, and I love her tips because like her, I'm on the shorter side.  She has both a youtube account and a blog.

A Thirty Mrs :  Like Zoella, I discovered her blog through Louise.  I soon feel in love with reading her blog every day!  She has amazing organizing tips and how to save money in your home!  She recently got a youtube account and has a blog.

These are just the top bloggers and youtubers that I love, there are a lot more, however I just wanted to highlight the top ones that I always watch and read!  What are your favourite bloggers?
-xx Sally

Thursday, July 12, 2012

Product Review: Soap & Glory Flake Away




Hey Everyone! So I am back with another wonderful product review. I have to say I really enjoy them, being a product junkie it allows me to constantly have an excuse to buy more products to try HAHA. I have been wanting to share this one with you for a while but like I have said I have a ton of products that need to be shared, and only so much time to share them!

This little beauty I picked up in Boots, while I was in England. I always adore exfoliators and am always a little apprehensive of them at the same time. I have struggled with tiny bumps on my arms for years, and I buy exfoliator after exfoliator to try to make them disappear. So I decided I would give this one a go.

Price: £7 at Boots ($11 Canadian)

Pros: The smell is absolutely lovely, it's not too sweet or florally which I like, but it still has a strong enough smell to last after your shower or bath. The actual exfoliator as well is a dream, my skin feels amazing. I use it on my arms and my legs and they feel amazing, even my little bumps are going away which makes me extremely happy! It does leave a slight "residue" on your skin, but instead of feeling oily you feel nourished and smooth. As though you just applied a rich moisturizer.

Cons: It doesn't seem to last very long. I have been using it for about 2 weeks now and I am nearing the end of my pot, and I haven't used a whole lot. So that is a slight pain, since I cannot find it in Canada.

Final Verdict: I give this product a huge thumbs up. I am so happy with it and I am now searching to see if I can get it delivered to me because I love it so much. If you need a find a new exfoliator pick this one up, you will not regret it.

**They are still having their 3 for 2 on Soap & Glory Products so go pick some up ! **

What is your favourite exfoliator? Leave it in the comments below!

-xx
Kelsey

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Collective Haul



Hi everyone, I've filmed a collective haul for all of you!  Sorry this is going up later than I planned, I've been super busy at work lately, but better late than never :).  You can view the video on this page, or on our youtube channel here.  I've accumulated a few things over the past couple weeks that I wanted to share with you guys.  
Have a wonderful evening, and be sure to follow us here, and on twitter where both Kelsey and I will keep you posted on everything we're getting up to! 
-xx Sally 

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

WB Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter




Hey Everyone! So this post is not going to be like the majority of my posts, it has nothing to do with beauty or fashion. This post is about something that I happen to love. Yes I know, a lot of you will tell me I'm a dork... I don't care. I would rather love Harry Potter than be involved with anything else. This story has taken me from my worst times to my best times and the minute I decided I was going to England I decided I was going to the WB Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter. If this is not something you would like to read, I don't mind if you wait until tomorrow for our regular posts, but if you would like to see more photos that I took that day you can click here now.

I cannot explain how amazing it felt to walk into the studio, get into line and enter a place that I had only ever seen on film. It was breathtaking and unreal. I was in shock. The detail that the set-makers have put into every set is phenomenal and its pure craftmanship. I don't want to give away a lot of details because I want you to be able to experience it for yourself. So again if you want to not view more photos I give you that option as well. It is your choice, of course.

I did notice that everyone there was not necessarily the biggest Harry Potter fan and I liked that. This exhibit is for everyone, when I got back to Canada my dad said he would of enjoyed it because he loves looking at sets. So if you aren't the biggest Harry Potter fan this can still be an amazing outing for you.

If you are able to go, I would definitely suggest it, it was one of the best days of my life.

If you'd like more information or would like to purchase tickets click here.

Have you been to the studio tour? Would you ever go?

-xx
Kelsey

Monday, July 9, 2012

How We Shopped for Our Apartment

If you have been following our blog, you'll know that my boyfriend and I are moving in together in September.  You can read my announcement about it here.  Because we're getting a place together we were able to spend a bit more money on things, than I would be able to if I were living alone.  Today I wanted to do a quick post on how we shopped for our place, because this is a big part of my life right now. Hopefully some of you will find this helpful if you are planning on getting your own place in the near future.

Step One : Establish a budget.  This is the most important part about shopping.  We sat down together and figured out what each of us could put into the budget, and how much we were willing to spend on buying new things. We also have a folder which holds all of our receipts, our list of things to get and our budget to date page.

Step Two : Figuring out what you need to get.  I made a HUGE list, room by room, of everything we could need.  We then went through the list and started checking things off that we already had (I had an apartment last year while I was at school so I had a lot of cooking things already) and things our family was going to give us.

Step Three : Figuring out what style we wanted to get.  We decided to go for simple and classic things. Things that we know we can use for years, and the basics.  We wanted to get the basic items first and then collect more things as we have more money.

Step Four : Buying!  This for me is my favourite part!  If you're moving in with someone, wether it be a friend or your partner, it's important to do this together.  You want to buy things that both of you will like, because both you have to live with it!

I hope that you guys find this interesting.  I know I really enjoy writing about this because it's such a huge part of my life right now.  Let me know if you'd like more post like this!
-xx Sally

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Topshop/Primark/New Look Haul

Hey Everyone! So I have a nice haul for all of you from Topshop, New Look and Primark. All of which I shopped at while I was in England. So please feel free to watch the video, where I show you everything I got, I figured a video was easier than me photographing everything and explaining it. Please feel free to ask me any questions if you have them and I hope you enjoy!


-xx
Kelsey

Saturday, July 7, 2012

Summer Snacks!

Durning the summer, we're all a lot busier (between work and our social lives), and we all try to eat a lot better.  So I thought for this Saturday post I'd talk about some healthy (and easy) summer snacks!

Fresh Fruit : During the summer fresh fruit is one of the best snacks you can eat!  Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, bananas (the list goes on and on), are all amazing in the summer!  They also make great snacks to go!  Cut some up the night before and put in a container, so when you're in a rush in the morning you can simply grab and go.  Also during these hot summer days, try leaving some fruit in your freezer for about 30 minutes to have some chilled (not frozen) fruit. 

Smoothies : Another great snack on the go (and you can use fresh fruit too).  Blend up some fruit, yogurt (or vanilla ice cream) and some ice, and pesto, you have a smoothie!

Popsicles :  Buying popsicles from the grocery store can be costly, and aren't that great for you.  Instead invest in a popsicle tray (Ikea has cheap ones) and pour in some fruit juice, or lemonade.  Or if you want to get fancy, you can freeze a smoothie. 

Fresh Veggies : Like fruit, fresh vegetables are in abundance during the summer time.  Take advantage of this and stock your fridge up with tones of veggies.  To save time, wash, chop and store your veggies ahead of time so all you have to do is grab the container!

What are your favourite snacks for summer time?
-xx Sally 

Friday, July 6, 2012

Product Review: No7 Nourishing Lip Shine



Hey Everyone! So I am back with another lovely product review. I should have a video up by this weekend for you, so stay tuned for that. Today I am reviewing the No7 Nourishing Lip Shine that I picked up while I was in the UK. 

I have read a few reviews on this product and of course each person's opinion is their own, but I was contemplating on picking this up, and thanks to a £5 voucher, I finally justified it to myself.

Price:  £10.50 at Boots, but with the voucher I only paid £5.50 ($8.50 Canadian)

Pros: I am in love with the packaging. As a graphic designer I appreciate when something has a pretty package. It's very girly and simplistic which I love! Now about the actual gloss, I am not a huge fan of lip gloss, I find it sticky and unpleasant, however, this isn't like that at all. It  stays smooth and doesn't get that gross sticky lip gloss feel. It also adds a nice hint of colour without being too over powerful, which makes it perfect for every day use.

Cons: It is a major pain in the butt to get out of the tube! I have to use every ounce of my strength to get it out. The price is a little steep for a lip gloss for me, I am okay when I have the £5 off but the full price is a little much, but I definitely like it enough to pay full for it again.

Final Verdict: I am a huge fan of these nourishing lip glosses and I will definitely purchase one again. The only problem is getting ahold of one now that I am back in Canada, since No7 is Boots' brand. I will find a way though HAHA. Anyway, if you have been debating on this little beauty I would definitely recommend picking it up and giving it a go yourself!

What's your favourite No7 product? Any other lip glosses you'd like to recommend that I should try?

-xx
Kelsey


Thursday, July 5, 2012

Product Review : Soap and Glory Scrub Your Nose In It


It was actually Kelsey who introduced me to this Soap and Glory product last year, and I soon fell in love with it!  This is my third bottle I've purchased, and I still like it as much as I did the first time.  It promises to help with large pores and clogging, and I have to say it lives up to it's claim.

Pros : It's an amazing face scrub, and also has a built in clay mask (an added bonus).  It makes my skin feel amazing after I've used it, and it doesn't hurt my sensitive skin.  I also use it as a spot treatment at night and I find it works really well on my spots.

Cons : It's really expensive over here in Canada (Shoppers retails it for around $20), and that is the biggest con.  The other downside is it doesn't smell the greatest, but after a while you get used to it.

Conclusion : I absolutely love this product, and I know that I'll be purchasing it for a while (if the fact that this is my third bottle didn't give you that clue).

Do you like Soap and Glory products?  If you do what's your favourite product?
-xx Sally

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

June Glossybox Canada






Hey Everyone! So yesterday evening my Glossybox came in the mail and I decided I would do an unboxing for you. Sadly because of siblings maxing out the internet I can only do a blog post for you and no video. But don't fret I'll explain everything for you.

If you are new to Glossybox, Glossybox is an online subscription that you sign up for and each month they send you a box filled with beauty goodies. If you are a product junkie this is the perfect thing for you. It is only $15 (Canadian) and the boxes are worth a lot more than you pay. So far my boxes sit around the $50-$60 mark which is an amazing value. If you would like to sign up please click here.

Now into the box!

This month's box contained some exciting stuff, but I don't think it was my favourite box so far. However, the products I did get are amazing and I am NOT at all disappointed. Below will be a list of the products and a bit about what they are, and my thoughts on them.

Bioré 4-in-1Revitalizing Cleanser - this is a cleanser that also acts as a make-up remover which I think is really neat. This product is a full-size product and retails for $9.99. I gave this product a try last night and the only complaint I have is it smells very chemically which I don't find appealing, but I will give it a go.

Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 55 - I have been using Neutrogena sunscreen on my face for as long as I can remember. However I don't tend to be using it lately because the tinted moisturizer I use has an SPF in it. So I decided to give this to my mother. A full size of this product retails for $15.99.

Wella Professionals Ocean Spritz - Wella is a brand that has shown up a lot in the beauty boxes, which I don't mind since I like their products. I tried to give this a try but I need to spend more time on it since my hair is very short, it can get a little less sexy-beach and a little more electrical shock, which isn't ideal. This product is full-size and retails for $16.99.

Olay Regenerist Wrinkle Revolution Complex - this is a wrinkle cream to reduce fine lines as to hydrate the skin. Being 21, I don't really need an anti-aging product so I gave this to my mother as well. A full-size of this product retails for $30.99.

Covergirl Flipstick Blendable Lip Duo - this product has one end that is a shimmer and one that is a colour so that you can blend it together to create many different lip looks. I got the shade 800 Whisper, which is a gorgeous pink colour (see swatch above). This is a full-size product that retails for $12.50.

Gillette Venus Embrace Razor - I love Venus razors, the only problem I have with them is the price. The refills get quite expensive, which isn't ideal when you are on a budget. So this little razor was a nice treat for me. This is a full-size product and retails for $13.43.

Bioré Deep Cleansing Pore Strips - Sally did a review on these a little bit ago, and I haven't used them in a long time so this will be a nice treat. This was a bonus item in the box and those are always nice little surprises that Glossybox puts in their boxes. A full-size of this product retails for $9.99.

Well there you have it. The box is definitely worth every penny, and each time you get one it is almost like a little present each month. I would recommend it to anyone and everyone! 

Do you subscribe to Glossybox? If you do did you get anything different in your box?

-xx
Kelsey

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Weekly Tip : Easy Curls


This week's weekly tip is going to be about how to get easy curls.  Now this works best if you have natural waves in your hair (which I do).  However my straight haired friends do not worry, this should still work for you. :)

This hairdo actually starts the night before, and requires little heat! 

1.  Have a shower, and apply your favourtie post shower serum (Mine is Moroccan Argon Oil) and towel dry your hair. 

2.  After put your hair up into a bun (two if you have thick hair) and leave for about an hour. 

3.  Before you go to bed make sure to loosen your bun for comfort. 

4.  The next morning take out your buns and loosen your hair with your fingers.

5.  Touch up your curls with a curling iron and apply your favourite hair spray!

And you're done!! I love doing these kind of curls in the summer especially because with the warm weather I don't have to be using a lot of heat on my hair.  Do you have any tips for getting curls with little to no heat?  Leave your suggestions in the comments below!
-xx Sally 

Monday, July 2, 2012

Product Review: Soap & Glory Marvelips






Hey Everyone! As I said in my previous blog post I have been going on a Soap & Glory rampage lately and being in London, UK really assisted in that fact. The products were less expensive and I always feel when I buy a Soap & Glory product I get a good quality product. I decided I'd pick up the Marvelips Lip Pencil to make my lips look "full and fabulous".

The pencil has two ends. A coloured end, that is in a beautiful red pink colour as you can see in the swatch, and a white highlighter end. Now as you can see from the back of the box you line your lips with the coloured end and then highlight the top centre of your lips. 

Now that I have explained a little about the product and how it works lets get into the review part of the post.

Price:  £8 at Boots ($13 Canadian)

Pros: I have finally found a nude lip pencil for myself. I have been searching high and wide for a lip pencil that matches my lips. I find that naturally my lips are a darker red than most people's which I think is amazing, but it makes finding a nude lip pencil very difficult. This pencil is slightly darker than my natural shade but not by much so it adds that little extra colour and I think it looks fabulous. So you can check fabulous off of the back of the box. It is also a nice consistency, very smooth and doesn't dry out my lips. Which is a huge plus for me.

Cons: Now as for full. I don't think it delivers that promise. I don't think my lips look any more full than they would normally. Which is not Angelina Jolie lips by any stretch. So it doesn't really deliver on that plumping promise, but it makes up for it in the colour.

Final Verdict: I love this product and would absolutely purchase it again. The only bummer is Shoppers sells it for $25... ouch. Luckily I will have this one for a while so I am not too worried about having to purchase another one any time soon. But if you do have access to a Boots, definitely stop by and pick one up! You won't regret it.

Have you tried Marvelips? If not do you think you would? Let me know in the comments!

-xx
Kelsey