LANCOME MIRACLE LIQUID CUSHION COMPACT FOUNDATION

Lancome introduced The Miracle Cushion Compact Foundation just recently, the first of its kind to their line. The cushion comes in a compact ($46.50 for 14 g/0.5 oz) and there are 11 different shade variations. Refills are also available for purchase.

The product comes nested in a white and silver compact; white bottom with a silver, mirrored top. Once opened, you will come across a rubberized flat sponge for application and a lid-sized mirror for your viewing. A dual lid keeps the cushion fresh and tidy ready for usage. The foundation has a very pleasant, fresh scent - noticeable as being applied, not after it sets.

I have previously seen other cushioned liquid foundations, mainly in the Asian markets, but I have never used one in the past. So, you can imagine that I was very excited and anxious to give this one a go!! I applied the product just as recommended (using the sponge that it comes with) and right away I noticed this sheer layer of foundation giving me a glow, which looked natural and non-greasy. I did layer it a couple of times to achieve the desired coverage. Once it dried, it looked flawlessly perfect on my skin - it felt comfortable, hydrating, unnoticeable, and quite natural.

I did like the foundation for everyday usage as it evened out my skin tone and resulted in a natural finish. I personally prefer a more buildable product when it comes to needing it for an event. I do not know how this product behaves in a hot/humid day.

Overall, I am very pleased with it. What I would recommend if you think that the price point is a bit steep, to look into alternative Asian products that are comparable yet less expensive than Lancome.

The Miracle Liquid Cushion is available via Lancome site, Sephora, Ulta, and other major retailers.

Have you tried this product yet? If so, how would you rate it?

DIOR SUMMER 2015: TIE DYE COLLECTION

Dior has hit the ball out of the park with their "Tie Dye" Summer Collection 2015. Although my love for Chanel is sky-high, Dior products come quite close (in my opinion, their summer 2015 collections are incomparable). 

Dior's Summer 2015 - Tie Dye Collection is impeccably beautiful ... Superb colors dipped in immaculate formulated products.  

The collection includes: 

• Diorskin Nude Tan Blush Harmony <two shades> $57
• Dior Addict Lipsticks <four shades> $33
• Dior Addict Fluid Sticks <three shades> $35
• Dior Addict Lip Maximizer <two shades - limited edition> $33
• Diorskin Nude BB Creme <limited edition> $45
• 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palettes <two shades - limited edition> $62
• Diorshow Kohl Stick <limited edition> $32
• Vernis Nail Colors <two shades - limited edition> $27
• Vernis Top Coat $28 

The "Coral Sunset" blush is packed in a silver compact etched with the iconic Dior cannage pattern and then gently placed inside a black velvet dust bag for protection. This product also comes with a mini kabuki brush, which is of great quality. 

The blush consists of a combination of four different shades (light yellow orange, warm orange, warm coral pink, iridescent pale yellowish white), that once fused together, results in a sheer, soft peach blush. The powder is quite smooth and embedded with subtle shimmer, which gives it the flexibility of being used as either a blush or a highlighter.  The layering of the product is very manageable and it does not allow for over-usage. 

The Dior Addict lipsticks and fluid sticks are simply stunning. The packaging is mostly similar between the two. The lipsticks consist of a clear design with a silver neckline and product carrier, while the fluid sticks are mainly the same, except a tad bit longer and half-way see-through. The lipstick's CD logo, different shade than the lipstick, runs through the entire product and offers beautiful, semi-sheer color with a glossy finish. One The contrasting colors give the Dior Addict Tie Dye Lipsticks a beautiful and unique look. 

Dior Addict Tie Dye Lipstick (Coral Trip) is a sweet coral with a red logo running through it, which results in a slightly red coral.

Dior Addict Tie Dye Lipstick (Fuchsia Utopia) is a dark pink  with a lighter pink logo within it, which results in a pop of fuschia pink.

Dior Addict Fluid Stick (Plaisir) is a gorgeous bright, cherry fuchsia (perfection for summer). One swipe and you receive the true color right on your lips with a perfect gloss finish. The product lasted about 4 hours, which after wearing off, left behind a really nice, even stain. 

Overall, the collection is stunning and its range of colors and products is impressive. I definitely recommend picking up a few items while you can.  

Have you picked up anything from this collection yet? If so, which item? 

Xo,

Anxhela

CAUDALIE MASKS: INSTANT DETOX AND GLYCOLIC PEEL

Caudalie launched four facial masks recently. The Instant Detox Mask and Glycolic Peel Mask are brand new to their skincare line, while the Purifying Mask and Moisturizing Mask had a package revamp ($39 each for 75 ml/2.5 fl oz). The product comes in a squeeze tube with wooden cap. These masks can either be applied alone or mixed together to target certain issues. Another tip would be to apply the mask on your most problematic sites (such as chin, forehead or nose) rather than a complete facial spread.

These masks have NOT been tested on animals and contain NO parabenes, phenoxyethanol, or sodium sulfates.

Instant Detox Mask is a pink clay mask that draws out impurities, oils and tightens pores. Once applied a thin layer as recommended, I noticed that it dried out within 5 minutes (although the directions state that you can leave it on for up to 10 minutes). As it was drying out, it was quite noticeable where I was mostly oily (nose and forehead) as there were dark spots all over those sites. After the removal of the mask, the skin felt quite smooth and the pores looked tighter. This mask did not irritate my skin, but if you have dry skin, I would advice that you leave it on for a shorter amount of time than recommended.

Main ingredients:
- Pink clay <purifies>
- Grape marc <detoxifies and drains impurities>
- Coffee <purifies>

All ingredients: Water, Bentonite, Glycerin*, Acacia Senegal Gum*, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Alcohol*, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Sodium Citrate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract*, Coffea Robusta Seed Extract*, Citric Acid*, Papain*, Cupressus Sempervirens Oil*, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Oil*, Commiphora Myrrha Oil*, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil*, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil*, Petroselinum Crispum (Parsley) Seed Oil*, Carbomer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Algin, Limonene, Linalool. *Plant Origin.

Glycolic Peel Mask is a white exfoliant mask, which activates cellular renewal for fresh, bright and even skin. I have applied this mask twice a week, for two weeks, and kept it on for 10 minutes (as recommended). I also need to tell you that I am an avid user of glycolic pads daily.  While using this mask, I did refrain from using the glycolic pads, but at the end of the treatment I did not notice much a difference besides a clean canvas. 

Main ingredients: 
- Glycolic acid <cell renewal by peeling>
- Papaya <radiance>
- Viniferine <reduces dark spots and delivers radiance>

All ingredients: Water, Glycerin*, Isononyl Isononanoate, Sorbitan Stearate*, Glyceryl Stearate Se*, Glycolic Acid, Cetyl Palmitate*, Cetearyl Alcohol*, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil*, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Panthenol, Squalane*, Cetyl Alcohol*, Dimethicone, Sodium Hydroxide, Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Bisabolol*, Fragrance, Benzyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60*, Sodium Pca*, Caprylyl Glycol, Arginine, Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract*, Tocopherol*, Carbomer, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Phytate*, Papain*, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, 1,2-Hexanediol, Algin. *Plant Origin.

I thoroughly enjoyed using both of these masks. However, if you are looking to invest in just one of them, I would mostly recommend the Instant Detox Mask as I liked my skin better after its usage due its extraction power of the impurities.

Have you tried any of these yet? What are your thoughts? Any favorite masks at the moment?

MOTHER'S DAY GIFTS IDEAS

Mother's Day is just around the corner and if you're like me, you have a mother who already has everything she wants, rarely thinks about herself because she is always thinking about those she loves around her, and to top it all off, she always says "you don't have to get me anything." Each year, I try to find something special for her to either incorporate into her wardrobe or home by always keeping in mind her style.
If you're in need of some gift ideas, I have listed a few options (low to highly priced) that hopefully will come handy in selecting a gift for your mother.

1. Kate Spade has some colorful and sophisticated iPhone cases and this Ladybug iPhone 5/5s ($34) is perfect for spring/summer months coming ahead. It is bright and feminine

2. This Nordstrom Paisley Scarf ($38, comes in orange, purple and green shades) is a beautiful, lightweight scarf made in Italy and it would complement nicely a white tee or blouse

3.  REN Rose O12 Moisture Defense Serum ($80) would be a great addition to your mom's beauty routine as it will add glow, softness and comfort to her skin. This serum will lock in the moisture and restore natural radiance, while at the same time fight free radicals and signs of aging

4.  This is the newest perfume by Stella McCartney "Stella" ($21-87, different sizes available from travel/trial), which is inspired by fresh, dewy roses under the morning sun. The scent encompasses citrus notes together with freesia to allow a sweet feeling.

5. Marc by Marc Jacobs Cat Eye Sunglasses ($130, come in black, brown and pink) are beautifully design to complete many face shapes

6. If a coffee lover, Nespresso Inissia Espresso Machine ($165, comes in black, white, blue, and red) is a MUST in any kitchen. I love mine dearly and I find it superb incomparable with all others I've had in the past. Nespresso has come out with different variations of the espresso machines (with/without the milk frother), which will serve your mom whichever traditional/non-traditional coffee drink her heart desires

7. Any mother looks terrific with earrings on and these Ippolita "Rose Rock Candy" Stud Earrings ($395) would only enhance and sparkle her beauty. Their blush rose color will be gorgeous on any skin-tone

8. If you can and would like to spoil mom this Mother's Day, Michael Kors "Large Casey" Satchel ($1,195, comes in black and vanilla) would be a superb present. Its structure is accentuated with polished goldtone hardware

***The cupcake is a sweet reminder to NOT forget with your gift ... yum

Have you already found a present yet? Do you have any traditions? Remember to show appreciation for your mom (and dad) everyday!!

TATCHA RICE ENZYME POWDER

I've been quite intrigued and anxious to try Tatcha products for a while as brand's philosophy and promise is "less is more - geisha beauty secrets." Japanese women are well known around the world for impeccable skin and I certainly want to try all that they're using to achieve such results!!

Tatcha has come out with several products, but I was mostly interested to test/try out Tatcha Classic Rice Enzyme Powder. This product comes in travel (0.5 oz, $15) and trial size (2.1 oz, $65). As much as I love makeup, I do love skincare products as well ... as what has been said, is true "Beauty comes from inside out."

     

I love the packaging - designed with a clever opening on the top with a push-back cap for the product. The small opening at the top allows for controlled product pouring, while at the same time making the product safe to travel with.

The Rice Enzyme Powder is a unique water-activated cleanser and exfoliator in one product. It is recommended to be used on a clean face. The powder was very gentle on my skin and didn't leave it dry or tightly uncomfortable afterwards. I was able to tell the difference on my skin's finish after its usage - it felt smoother, cleaner and more breathable.

The Classic Rice Enzyme Powder ingredients: Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Potassium Myristate, Polyethylene*,  Papain (Papaya Extract), Talc, Dextrin, Red Algae Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Conchiolin (Pearl) Protein,  Phenoxyethanol.

Since the Classic Enzyme Rice Powder was released, Tatcha has come out with two other versions: the Gentle Rice Enzyme Powder and the Deep Rice Enzyme Powder (both in travel/trial sizes). 

You can find Tatcha products on their website, Tatcha.com or Sephora, Barney's New York. 

INSIDE MY BAG || TAG

Perfect timing to be tagged for a "What's inside my bag" tag as the diaper bag has recently retired. Thanks to my sweet friend Sam (@dazzlefabble) for tagging me to show all of my bag's glossy wonders.

I try to keep my bag organized mostly, but with a toddler around there's either toys/snacks forgotten in there, or crumbled receipts thrown in a hurry as I run after her. 

So, here you go my darlings ... Take a look inside my purse and crack a giggle as life is beautiful, sweet and messy at times <I'm becoming more accepting of it since I've had a baby>

As usual, I have way too many lip products in my purse. I adore my Chanel Coco Rouge Shine for everyday usage as they don't dry out my lips and provide color and moisture in one. I also love the Chanel Glossimers as well, but I find myself to wear them more rarely as they prevent me from smooching my baby <dislike leaving the sticky product on her perfect face>.

The Tory Burch red patent wallet is a favorite of mine <an oldie, but a goodie>. The Jimmy Choo sunglasses provide the protection and style all at once. I do were contacts and the ClearEyes drops are definitely needed during the day, especially if I'm wearing them for too long. While the goldfish are a snack for my sweet baby <sometimes mommy as well>, the wipes are used right afterwards to clean up the messy, chubby hands.

What's in your bag? Do tell - I'd love to hear from you

SISTERHOOD OF WORLD || TAG

I was tagged on this post by a lovely IG member/blogger named Samileen whose IG account is Dazzlefable and Blog is named BeautyDetour.blogspot.com <fabulous feeds to follow and swoon over>. 

Let's carry on with the tag questions...

1 | It's 2am, what are you up to?

Easily asleep, unless tending to my daughter

2 |  Are you all time partier or home-body?

I enjoy being with my daughter and husband - whether that's home or out n' about. I take pleasure out of having friends/family over as well. 

3 | What's your phone's lock screen background?

My baby girl's brightly red painted toes *nom nom*

4 | Your dream vacation?

I'm a hot weather lover; therefore beach relaxation is my R&R of choice. If I'd have to pick a specific location would have to be either Fiji and/or Bora Bora.

5 | What was your first makeup product?

While thinking real hard for this answer, I feel like I'm ages old. If my memory serves me correctly, I would have to say that it was definitely a lip product and most likely, a lip gloss.

6 | 5 products on your wishlist?

I just recently did a post listing all that I'm currently lusting over - check it out here

7 | Worst Social Media site in your point-of-view?

Ahhh duh, it's Flickr. I'm clearly addicted to IG.  

8 | What freaks you out the most?

Snakes and spiders

9 | How would you react if all your make-up got stolen? 

Definitely file a police report stat!!!!!! 

10 | Pet peeves? 

Dirty utensils/dishes and/or fractured dishes at a restaurant, people chewing loudly, and people blowing their nose while seated to dine. Why can't humans be born with these minimalistic manners embedded in them right at birth?!?!?

Follow me on Bloglovin' and Instagram dolls

Xo,
Anxhela

NEW BEAUTY || ON MY RADAR

This time of year is fabulous - not only because of the weather getting warmer, but also the gorgeous colorful beauty collections coming out. As a reminder, the Sephora Beauty Insider sale starts soon (April 12th for VIB Rouge members) Some of the items on my list are via Sephora, the rest are from Nordstrom. 

1 I I am a huge fan of Caudalie and them coming out with these new face masks, which target different needs. The options include the Purifying Mask, the Instant Detox Mask, the Glycolic Peel, and the Moisturizing Mask ($39 each). 

2 I The Tory Burch eyeshadow palettes come in three different color hues: the Catch, the Cat's Meow and the Pas du Tout. My preferred one is the "Catch" and quite excited to swatch it and test it out ($60 each). 

3 I I'm intrigued and quite anxious to try Tatcha (any of its products for that matter). Who doesn't want to have impeccable skin like Japanese women are known to?  I'm mainly more interested in the Polished Rice Enzyme Powder, which promises to remove all the impurities and leave the skin smooth and polished in an instant. It functions not only as a cleanser, but also as a toner ($65) 

4 I Bobbi Brown "Pink" Cheek Palette is loaded with three light pink shades of blush - neutral, bright and a highlighter. As any of Bobbi Brown's blushes, I'm quite certain that the palette would not disappoint in its longevity and quality ($45)

5 I Who doesn't love a nude lip?!? These Nars Nude Scene lip glosses promise just that. They come in two colors: Guyane (pale nude pink) and Vent Sale (clear with silvery specks of shimmer) ($29 each)

6 I Tom Ford Eye Color Duo come in three different shades: Crushed Indigo (blue hue), Raw Jade (green hue) and Ripe Plum (purple hue). Gorgeous to look and even more gorgeous to wear!! ($60 each)

What's in your beauty radar? Are you planning to take advantage of Sephora sale this week?

YSL POP WATER COLLECTION: GLOSSY STAINS

YSL and Nordstrom have released an exclusive collaboration named Pop Water Collection. It consists of new shades of Glossy Stains, Nail Lacquers and a new Metallic Eyeshadow formula. This collection is currently available only at Nordstrom until mid-late April. 

This collection includes:

• Vernis à Lèvres' Plump Up Glossy Stain $36
• Vernis à Lèvres' Glossy Stain $36
• La Laque Couture' Nail Lacquer $27
• Full Metal Shadow' Metallic Color Liquid Eyeshadow $30

I picked up quite a few of the lip stains (5 lip stains and the lip plumper) - they're fresh and juicy colors, which really brighten up the mood for spring/summer. 

In order (left-right) - Plump-up (200), Dewy Red (201), Rouge Splash (202), Eau De Corail (203), Pink Rain (205), Juicy Peach (207)

The sponge tip is perfectly shaped to get precise application around the edges while the flat beveled parts allow you to fill in and cover the entire lip. They are perfectly designed to allow impeccable application each time. 

The plumper is very hydrating on the lips. It comes in a very pale pink shimmery hue, but on the lips it is basically clear. It is very hydrating and gives the lips a pretty long-lasting shine. 

The tinted lip stains come in variations of bright summery colors, but still wearable. One swipe on your lips allows a transformation into a soft tint, while additional swipes would build on more color. 

The scent on these stains is a very soft sweet grapefruit scent, but it is not overwhelming and still pleasant. I am in love with the Pop Water Glossy stains and very content with all the colors that I chose above. 

Have you tried any of these? Which ones are your favorites? Let me know your thoughts below...

Xo,
Anxhela

SWIMWEAR RESORT READY

The winter is dreading (it always does) and I find myself several times, within 24hrs, day-dreaming of a vacation on a white sandy beach, with crystal blue ocean, and sunny skies while having a bubbly cocktail in my hand ... heck, 80 degree weather would suffice right about now!!

I have a few bikinis that I rotate during each summer (thankfully, they still fit), but I'm on the look-out for new swimwear as styles and preferences change and evolve. 

Nowadays, I have come across several websites that carry beautifully made and orchestrated swimwear - from low to high end cost. This season, print is a big hit amongst different designers and I cannot lie, that I seem to like it as well. Thumbs up!!

Topshop Scalloped One Piece ($68) via Nordstrom

Braided Bandeau Bikini ($48) via Target

Clover Canyon Abstract Garden Neoprene Bikini ($194) via Bloomingdale's

Coco Rave Bandeau Monokini ($80) via Nordstrom

Black Tie Dye Embellished Bikini ($35) via Target

PilyQ Patara Diamond Triangle Bikini ($144) via Bloomingdale's

Mara Hoffman Sunspoke Navy Bandeau Bikini ($244) via Bloomingdale's

Which one is your favorite? 

Xo,
Anxhela

LONG-LASTING WATERPROOF EYELINERS

I'm quite confident when I say that we've all been there ... whether it is a hot & humid summer day or a long work day, the eyeliner that you placed in the morning on an impeccable face, starts to go rouge and migrate south within a few hours. 

I've been down that road before and thought that it would be a good idea to share some of my favorite black long-lasting waterproof eyeliners that I've encountered to be successful and true to their promise. 

Hopefully, these come handy to some of you. The rest, please let me know if you have a different favorite than the rest for me to try out.

Stila All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner

The Stila All Day Waterproof Liquid eyeliner ($20) is my current favorite that I use on a daily basis. It has a felt tip pen-like applicator, which makes it precise in applying it whether it is the top or lower lashes. This liner does not smudge or smear when wet and it comes off very well when you're washing your face. 

Chanel Waterproof Long-lasting Eyeliner

The Chanel Waterproof Long-lasting eyeliner ($32) is smudge-proof, waterproof and long-lasting (all that it's promised). Do not consider me biased because of my true love for Chanel - this is an excellent eyeliner to own in your makeup collection. 

Sephora Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner 

The Sephora Retractable Waterproof eyeliner ($12) is easy to use and only smudged on me a bit after an all-day usage (8-6 day) and exposure to water. The removal of it was easy with the face-wash products. 

Marc Jacobs Precision Waterproof Pen 

The Marc Jacobs Precision Waterproof Pen eyeliner ($30) features a certain tip that draws thin & thick precision lines with a shiny and blackest black. This liner does not fade, transfer or smudge and it really does last all day. 

Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Liner

Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl liner ($20) stays sharp after each use without needing to sharpen it manually. It's application is easy and the lines are sharp and jet black. This liner allows you to either leave it in place after applied or smudge it out.

Have a lovely evening dolls!! 

Xo,

Anxhela 

TOO FACED NATURAL MATTE EYESHADOW PALETTE

The new Too Faced Natural Matte Eyeshadow palette ($36) for Summer 2015 is loaded up with matte, natural shades for fresh & classy eye looks during spring/summer. The "story" has it that a minimal, yet sophisticated face with a lot more contouring might be THE thing this summer!! I say ... style above trend.

The shadows come gently packed within a tin box with a magmatic closure - easy to open and just as easy & gentle to close. 
Take a peek below...

As with all Too Faced Eye Collection Palettes, this palette includes a how-to look guide (neatly and tightly packed against the mirror) as well as nine shades of eyeshadow. 

The shades have beautiful pigmentation. They're smooth, creamy and buildable. Although they might seem slightly soft in the palette, while they dust off a bit as well, I'm confident as I say that it does not transfer to the eye.  

You can locate this beauty at Ulta via their website or store.  

Let me know your thoughts below if you have already tried or want to try it asap. 

Xo,
Anxhela