5 Super Easy Christmas Nails

Hello!

With it being the holiday season, it's only right to do festive nails, right? So with Christmas around the corner (7 days left, oh my) I wanted to share with you 5 super easy and fun nail designs. These would be the perfect accessory to any holiday outfit. A list of products, a walk through step by step tutorial and final picture are below. I hope you like and if you recreate any of these, I'd love to see it. Send me pictures to my Twitter account @GlamourbyLexi

Step by Step Tutorial (starting Thumb to Pinky above):

Thumb Nail Festive Christmas Dots: Start with any white nail polish. I recommend doing 2 coats. Then take any red and green nail polish to create the dots with a dotting tool. Don't have a dotting tool? No worries, a toothpick will do the trick!

Index Nail Snowflake: Start with 2 coats of a deep Navy blue. Start by applying a dot on the center of the nail using a dotting tool and a silver metallic nail polish. Then with the same silver polish draw four lines using a nail brush around the silver dot (one line vertical above, one vertical below, one horizontally to the left and one horizontally to the right). Taking the same dotting tool used earlier, create tiny dots on the lines to create your snowflake.

Middle Nail Christmas Tree: Starting with a 2 coats of white polish. Take a green striper polish and create a triangle shape with the pointed tip just below the cuticle. Fill in that triangle with the same green polish. Once that dries take your favorite polish to create dots that simulate ornaments. I used a metallic gold but any color would work. I then took a gold glitter to create a dot at the tip for my star.

Ring Nail Snowman: Start with 2 coats of a pearly white polish. Using a small dotting tool or toothpick dipped into black polish create 2 dots for eyes and a couple closer to the end of the nail for his smile. Wipe that tool and using an orange polish create a small triangle pointing to the left for his nose.

Pinky Nail Snowfall: Start with a light baby blue nail polish. Take the small dotting tool and draw a blanket of snow with white polish towards the edge of the nail, in the same area you'd do a french tip. Then use the same white polish and apply a few dots for the falling snow.

Once your design dries, apply a shiny topcoat to seal the designs and add shine. Viola! Your nails are ready to make a statement at your Christmas party!

Products Used/Needed:

*White Nail Polish- I used Sephora Formula X in White Matter
*Red Nail Polish- I used Sephora Formula X in Pyrotechnic
*Green Striper polish- I used one from Sinful Colors purchased from Walgreens
*Navy Blue nail polish- I used Julep
*Metallic Silver- I used Sally Hansen insta dry in Silver Sweep
*Metallic Gold- I used one from the old Sephora brand
*Orange nail polish- I used one from OPI that is a few years old
*Light Blue polish- I used Sephora Formula X in Infatuated

*Tools~Dotting tool or toothpicks

As you can see in the picture, the designs are super easy. I am not an expert nor am I good at drawing and I can make this look decent. So I know that you can recreate these designs too.

A video tutorial will be posted towards the end of this week on my YouTube channel showing this nail art. If you haven't checked out my channel, click here. Please subscribe while you're there, it's free :) :)

Thanks for stopping by & Merry Christmas !!
xoxoxo
~Lexi

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide

Hello everybody!


Today on my channel I posted my ultimate holiday gift guide. I hope you had the chance to watch...if not click here to watch. I share all of my gift ideas for everyone on your list this holiday season. I took a more personalized approach to gift giving this year with all my makeup and nail inspired gifts.

I also include gifts for him....and let's be honest, guys can be hard to shop for. Also, in that video you will find ideas for that person on your list that has everything but you can't seem to find the perfect gift. I've got you covered :) Below are some tips and links to some stores that offer great Christmas gifts..I hope you like!

Here is a picture of some of the gifts mentioned in the video......

 

Holiday Shopping Tips:

* Every store website for the most part has a Christmas gift tab. Click on it to see what they offer so that you don't go driving around town like crazy searching for gifts.

* Search online by your price point, (i.e. gifts under $20, etc) at your favorite store's websites under their holiday gifts section.

*Add a personalized touch to your gifts this year. It'll mean more to the recipient. 

* Plan your shopping trips in advance, Do not wait for the last minute....all the good stuff will be gone. 

* Shopping online may be scary, but trust me I've found some amazing deals with free shipping. (Besides, you can do the bill to and ship to, so it saves you money on gift wrap and at the local post office.)

* Sticking to a budget is wise. This will keep you from over spending by the end of your shopping trip. 

* Make a list of all your recipients and take it with you to the store :) 

(Also, write notes on that list of what you feel they may enjoy)

* Don't feel like you have spend more money than the year before...that's not the point of Christmas! 

*P.S and by the way...Have Fun shopping!!!!

I hope these tips and my video gift guide helps you find the perfect gift for your loved ones. Tis' the season for gift giving :) :) Below are links to some of my favorite stores with awesome deals.

Stores to consider:

Target

Kohls

Macy's

Amazon

Walmart

Merry Christmas!!

May this holiday season be amazing for you. I send you all my love from my house to yours and your loved ones. Thank you for all your support! Don't forget to subscribe :)

Follow me on Twitter for daily updates :)

xoxoxo

~Lexi

Lorac Rockin' Red Hot Pro Set

Hey everybody!!


I'm doing a special post today on something that I believe to be a great Christmas gift! I'm reviewing and swatching the infamous Lorac Pro palette that everyone seems to love on YouTube. I will give you my honest opinion and I hope this post will make your gift giving easier. Tis the season for holiday shopping!!

This Lorac Pro palette is a perfect addition to anyone's makeup collection. Whether you're a beginner or a makeup enthusiast like me, this palette is sure to please. The looks that can be created are really endless with this palette. So here we go......

This is an Ulta exclusive $39
(be sure to check your local Ulta or website linked below)

Off the bat, this set is a few dollars cheaper ($3 to be exact) than just purchasing the same Pro palette without the extras. This set includes the Pro palette, a full size Front of the Line Pro liquid liner (in black) and a deluxe size of Behind the Scenes eyeshadow primer.

The Pro palette: A great range of mattes and shimmers! First off, it's hard to find that perfect palette with a balance of mattes with shimmers and metallics. I feel this one nailed it quite nicely. The top row is all mattes...from white to black. The bottom row is all shimmers....from nudes to gray and everything in between. The top row has everything you need to do a complete matte finish look or to create the perfect blended back drop to any eyeshadow applied to the lid. The second row is a collection of colors that add that perfect pop to any look you want to create. Enjoy the pics below :)

A look inside the palette.
Great size mirror that's handy when traveling
during this holiday season.

A closer look at the eyeshadows.

Here are swatches and color descriptions!

Top Row
L to R listed above

Second Row
L to R listed above

As you can probably tell from the swatches, these colors are very pigmented. There is not one dud in the palette. They all are extremely velvety soft and creamy when applied. Definitely, two thumbs up!

All the pieces inside the set.

*The Front of the Line Pro liquid liner is really awesome too. It's a richly pigmented black that glides smoothly across the upper lash line. It has a short tapered brush tip applicator that's very easy to use. It's been a long time favorite of mine for many years. I always have one in rotation along with my other everyday eyeliners. 

*The Behind the Scenes eyeshadow primer is also great. I've used their primer for a long time as well. It apply evenly across the eyelid and it dries clear. This is definitely a must have for prolonging the wear of eyeshadows. Also, it works great with oily lids. 

Overall, I am very pleased with this set. It's a perfect gift...just add a bow and go! It takes all the guess work out of gift giving to a makeup enthusiast. As I stated above, this is an Ulta exclusive. Click here for the Lorac cosmetics online at Ulta. Or you can visit your local Ulta store to purchase. 

Click here  to visit my beauty channel and please subscribe :) Lots of tutorials coming up using this set. Also, follow me for daily updates on makeup, my channel, my blog and personal stuff via Twitter. Thank you for stopping by and I hope you enjoy this post. Thank you for your continued support. May this holiday season bring you and your loved ones much happiness!! 

Happy Holidays!!!!! Merry Christmas!!!!! 

xoxoxo

~Lexi

Speckled Nail Effect

Hello everyone!

Last week I posted a nail art video showing you how to do a speckled or paint splattered effect on your nails using Sephora Formula X The Twenty-Two set. Click here for reviews and swatches of the polishes. Also, click here to watch this nail art tutorial! These nail polishes are so amazing. Two thumbs up!!!! I hope you enjoy :)

Formula X for Sephora

Colors used: 

"White Matter"- for thumb and pinky nails. I used two coats for an opaque white finish.

"Dark Matter"- for my middle nail. Literally, you only need one coat for a true pigmented black.

"Thrilling"- for pointer and ring nails. It's a great neutral taupe.

"Meteoric"- Glitter topcoat over pointer and ring nails. It's a special effects topcoat with black and white glitter chunks.

Click here to shop Sephora for Formula X products. 

Please subscribe to my channel after watching the tutorial. Follow me on Twitter for daily updates @GlamourbyLexi

Thanks for all the support. 

Happy Holidays!!!

xoxoxo

~Lexi

Boscia "Bright Stars" Holiday Skincare Set

Hello everyone! How was your Thanksgiving? I hope it was fantastic :)


I wanted to share with you all my thoughts on the Boscia "Bright Stars" skincare set that I ordered from Sephora a few weeks back during the VIB sale. Watch my VIB sale haul here  So far I have formulated some opinions of the products and I'm giving you the 411 on it! First off, this brand is preservative free and great for sensitive skin. I decided on this kit because I wanted a skincare line that was more botanical and more nourishing for my skin since I'm using prescription medications for my acne. Also, this kit contains ingredients claimed to be holy grail in Japanese beauty rituals for geishas. So who wouldn't want to try, right? Here are the photos......

$54 at Sephora Online Only!
Complete packaging with box

A closer look.....

This kit includes (shown L to R above):

*Purifying Cleansing Gel (5oz. size): which is a full size product. So far this cleanser leaves my skin feeling squeaky clean. I don't feel it stripping away my skins natural oils which is great. My skin does feel a bit dry after washing with this cleanser but it's really not bad. I enjoy the fact that this product is full of good for you ingredients such as green tea and amnio acids. This is ideal for sensitive skin because Boscia advertises the line to be "preservative free".

*Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil (1.7oz. size): not quite full size but enough to do the job for a few weeks. It's a little less than half of the normal size bottle. I enjoy the cooling sensation from this product and it's not uncomfortable feeling. I find this makeup cleansing oil doesn't take off every trace of makeup with a couple of pumps of product. I've been using 2 pumps and it removes all of my face makeup but not everything around my eye area. Maybe if I used 3 or more pumps, I could get a cleaner makeup free face. Each pump dispenses a good amount of products so 3 pumps sounds like a lot. It seems that cleansing oils are big right now in the skincare arena. I was excited to use this item from the kit but I find that a regular makeup remover does the job better. It's claim is to refresh congested skin while dissolving makeup and impurities. After using this product I cleanse with the Purifying cleanser. 

*Self-Defense Vital Antioxidant Moisture SPF 30 (0.5 oz. size): Off the bat, I noticed this product is very small in amount even though the tube appears to be a deluxe size. I particularly don't prefer to use this product as my daytime moisturizer. I like it but not enough to purchase in full size. I think this works well in my forehead and cheek area while leaving my nose and chin feeling a bit dry. I am also not a fan of the smell. To me, it smells weird and it's hard to describe the scent. But, I do have to mention that I don't smell it after applying it. The SPF quality is great because it's always good to protect you skin. 

*Super-Charge Overnight Moisture (0.5 oz. size): again this product is a little less than half of the normal size tube. I am really enjoying this rich and luxurious feeling night cream. I love how nourishing it feels and it makes my skin ultra soft. It's great I think for all skin types since it's a night cream. The brand claims that this product restores and renews skin. I would purchase this full size. 

*Enlivening Amnio-AG eye treatment (0.2 0z. size): this eye cream is full of amnio acids and antioxidants that are great for your under eye area. It feels like silk, so rich and luxurious. I really love this eye cream. My under eye area feels really soft immediately after applying and throughout the day. Again, it's another product I would buy full size. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a good eye cream from a brand that is full of botanical ingredients or really for anyone. 

*Tsubaki Oil (0.27 oz. size): Another product I was looking forward to. I was a bit skeptical on using oils on my oily skin. But after reading that oils help balance out oily skin, I was inclined to try. Unlike many face oils, this one doesn't contain pore clogging and acne causing mineral oil. So far, I think it's very moisturizing. I use this during the day time every morning after cleansing. It has helped me with my slight peeling due to my nightly application of RetinA for my cystic acne. The brand claims that this replenishes the skin to hide past damage giving you softer more supple skin. Also, the brand claims that Camellia oil (which is part of Japanese beauty rituals) is said to be non-comedonegenic.  I would purchase this full size.  

*100 Sheets of Green Tea Blotting Linens: This is full size product and the packaging is basic but functional and cute. I am not a fan of blotting sheets, period. I feel blotting sheets do work but lift off your foundation and I don't like that. These on the other hand are nice. They're ultra thin sheets of green tea and they smell just like tea. I'm a big tea drinker so the smell appeals to me. They also look speckled almost like a robin's egg. Honestly, I haven't used these too much to give an in depth review. I don't normally think to use blotting papers so I'll have to keep using this product before I decide whether or not to repurchase. 

So there you go. I know this was long and lengthy but I wanted to give you my honest opinions. I wouldn't misguide anyone on any of the products I purchase so I go real deep with my reviews. I hope you enjoyed it and find something you would like to try. 

Thanks again for stopping by! Don't forget to subscribe to my channel, link it posted above. Also, follow me on Twitter for daily updates. 

xoxoxo

~Lexi 

All brand "claims" stated above are paraphrased from Sephora's website.

Formula X The Twenty-Two Nail Polish Set

Hello everyone!

Last night I posted a video review on the Formula X The Twenty-Two nail polish set from Sephora. If you haven't seen it, Click here to get up close with all the lovely colors. This set contains 22 nail polishes that range from neutrals, to brights/neons, to metallics to awesome glitters. It has a great mix of all colors and finishes. It's the perfect gift for anyone who loves doing their nails. You can buy this set from Sephora for $55. I know this may seem like a lot money for mini size bottles but the quality is amazing. My video, linked above shares everything you need to know about these babies!

The pictures below of swatches are only using one coat without base coats and top coats.

A row of brights/neons, metallic and glitters!

A row of neutrals, classics and fun glitters!

Swatches of all 22 colors!
One coat without base/top coats

Again, these colors are truly amazing. There are a few neons that need a second coat and obviously a top coat due them drying with a matte finish. This aspect of neon nail polishes is to be expected regardless of the brand and cost. Sephora has so many colors to choose from and it can be slightly overwhelming when browsing their selections.  I had on a few shades for 5 days without any chipping!! This is huge, guys! I'm totally in love :) I would definitely recommend these to everyone. I hope you love them as much as I do.  Which colors are your faves? 

Thanks again for stopping by & don't forget to subscribe to my channel while visiting it :)

xoxoxo,

~Lexi

Lancome Teint Idole 24H Makeup Foundation Review

Hey everyone! How's your Sunday going? 

Today I wanted to do a quick review of this Lancome foundation that I have been wearing for a little while. I got a sample from Sephora back in October while on the hunt for a new foundation. I have tried several tons of foundations claiming to be the next big thing. But none seem to fit the bill. Well before I get into the review, I must share with you some background info on my skin.

I have combo/oily skin that is prone to breakout...mainly cystic acne face demons. Plus I have a lot of scarring left behind by those said demons. So my skin is a bit tricky to work with and most foundations just don't do much for me. Now I have a few face powders that I go and forth with from time to time but foundations aren't something I have to choose from in my makeup stash. 

So this Lancome foundation is called Teint Idole Ultra 24H Makeup! Yup, that's a mouth full. On the box it says "wear & comfort, retouch-free makeup, divine perfection for all skin types". Normally "oily" skin people can't be in an "all skin types" category.  But somehow this foundation works for me. Lately I have been extra oily due to medications I'm taking so I still do get a bit oily through this foundation but it's not as bad as if I were to wear other liquid face products. So below I have broken down all the claims and my thoughts on this baby.

*Lancome claims that this foundation is it's first 24 hour foundation that was launched after 8 years of research. I'm sure this may be the first 24 hour foundation for Lancome but as for the 8 years of research for this one product...not too sure if I believe that. 

*Full coverage & velvety matte finish: I do find this foundation to be on the fuller side of coverage. Totally full coverage? No! it's not. I can still see my scars through the foundation, so I just add a little more in the areas I need or use concealer. There is a slight sheen to my skin(not to be mistaken for shimmery or luminous) I guess I should say it's not completely flat looking when applied. 

*This foundation is Oil free, Fragrance free, Transfer free, Non-comedogenic and Tested on sensitive skin: I like all these qualities in this product. It's very important for me to find products without pore clogging oils, without fragrances to irritate my sensitive skin and most importantly ones that are not pore clogging or acne causing. Two Thumbs up!!

*24 Hour claim: Well honestly I never wear makeup for a full 24 hours. I only usually get 8 hours of makeup wear in my day. So it's does last and it doesn't break down after 8 hours, so I'm happy. 

*Price- $45 It's a bit steep for 1 oz. of foundation but this will last me a while. Besides, a little goes a long way. On average most department store foundations are around this price. 

*SPF 15: Good to have in a foundation. It doesn't have that flashback look in photos, so it's perfect for those upcoming holiday portraits. 

Basic packaging: Glass bottle with a pump.

                                           

My Bottom line: 

I really like this foundation but not the price, hahaha. I find that I still get oily but I know it's due to medications I'm on...one of those being RetinA. It feels very lightweight and smooth. It blends so easily and it can be built up without looking cakey. Would I buy again? Yes I would unless I try something else that's better. But for now this will be my go to foundation to carry me into the winter months. I would recommend this for those who are combo, normal or slightly oily. Extremely oily skin can use it but make sure to apply a mattifying primer underneath and a sheer powder to set it. Oh by the way, I don't normally use a powder to set this foundation. I use my Hourglass "diffused light" all over very lightly. 

A video demo will be up soon on my channel So the best way to stay updated is to follow me on Twitter I hope you enjoyed this review. Please let me know if you have any questions. Don't forget to watch my latest makeup tutorial "Fall Inspired Makeup"....and subscribe while you're there :) 

Thanks for stopping by,

xoxoxo

~Lexi

Sephora Favorites Give Me More Lip

Hi all,
Today I'm sharing with you my thoughts, swatch-y goodness and tons of pictures on Sephora's Give Me More Lip kit. This kit is $59 at Sephora stores and online (currently sold out online, but Click here to shop the website) I used my VIB 20% off discount yesterday Nov 7th to buy a ton of different holiday kits. More reviews coming soon on those. Want to see all the goodness I bought? Click here

Now onto this baby.....

$59 at Sephora

16 piece set
mixture of Full size & Deluxe size

  

The Reds

                                                           Color Descriptions:

                  *MUFE "N45"- a sheer semi glossy red with a hint of a berry tone.

             *Kat Von D "Adora"- Camera didn't pick up the golden shimmer/foiled effect.  

                     It's a shimmery orange-y red. So beautiful in person!

            *Bite "Pomegranate"- An intense creamy bright true red with a slight glossy finish.

          *Hourglass "Icon"- Deep rich red with a bit of berry undertone. The formula is

                                                     on the thinner side.

The Pinks

                     

   

                                                                                         

Color Descriptions:

         *Too Faced "Marshmallow Bunny"- sheer light pink with slight glossy finish. Since it's 

a light pink it comes across a little bright. It has a slight lemon scent.

   *Bare Minerals "Never Say Never"- Intense creamy bright medium pink. I love the 

pigmentation and finish of this lipstick.

*Kat Von D "Backstage Bambi"- A thin but extremely pigmented bright pink. 

It applies opaquely with one layer.

 *Smashbox "Pout"- A very glossy light pale pink. I've tried this years ago and I'm not 

the biggest fan of Smashbox's lip glosses. I don't care for the 

smell...which isn't offensive when worn. 

                                                                                   

The Nudes

                              

                                                                  

                                                               Color Descriptions:

                      *Smashbox "Nylon Nude"- Creamy brown-y nude color. I had to build this swatch up

 a  bit at first but it has good pigmentation.

                 *Buxom "White Russian"- Very glossy beige nude with a slight tingle. I love the 

             plumping aspect of the buxom line. It's not a painful tingle just a slight minty feel. I enjoy 

using buxom glosses.

              *Stila "Dolce"- Intense brown liquid lipstick that has a thin formula. The packaging is slightly  deceiving since it doesn't look this dark in the tube. This probably the lip 

product I'm the least thrilled about. Not really the nude I'm into.

      *Laura Mercier "Bare Naked"- Glossy nude with a slight peachy tone and golden shimmer. 

 It's very comfortable to wear, no stickiness! It's a nice gloss to wear over 

other lipsticks or alone for low maintenance days. 

The Berries

                           

                                                              Color Descriptions:

                   *Stila "Sonya"- A sheer glossy berry balm lipstick. I don't like the packaging on this one.  It's in a lipstick tube but you can't twist it up or down, which is odd. I feel like when I go to 

place the cap back on I'll end up messing up the lipstick. Besides that it's a nice color for fall.

    *Buxom "Menace'- An intense deep creamy berry, nice vampy color. It looks a lot deeper in the packaging then it swatches. Perfect fall color!!

 *Tarte "Inspired"- A light berry shade. There's no shimmer or glossy finish...more matte looking. It's a bit drier than other lipsticks I've tried. I guess it's because of the "12 hr" claim. Long 

wearing products tend to be thinner and drier feeling on the lips. A definite wearable berry color.   

*OCC "Strumpet"- Wowza! So intense, it's a deep true berry color. So vampy and sexy looking! Literally all you need is one drop for an opaque finish. I've never tried lip tars before so I'm

 excited for this one.        

So there it is guys! I hope this was helpful. I know there's a lot of information on this post but this kit seems to be very popular online (sold out status, currently) but it's available in stores. I really love the colors and variety of finishes. My one nag if you will, is that there's several products from the same cosmetic line. I wish Sephora would have included other brand names they carry (i.e. Dior, Lancome, Givenchy, etc.) Maybe that's something they could improve for next year. As far as the price, $59 is decent for the amount, 16 products in which there are a couple full sizes.  

Think this kit may be too many lip products for you? Read my review on Sephora's smaller version

"Give Me Some Lip" 

I'm excited to use these in upcoming fall/holiday tutorials. Make sure to Subscribe here to stay tuned with what's happening. 

What are your thoughts on this kit? Which ones are your favorite?

*Follow Me on Twitter @GlamourbyLexi

Thanks for stopping by

xoxoxo

~Lexi

Franken Polish Starter Kit

Hello everyone!

Today I would like to share with you some information on making your own homemade glitter nail polishes. I know this sounds more complicated than it actually is, but trust me it's easy. You do need several supplies which are key to making glitter polishes the right way. By the right way, I mean making polishes with a suspension base and not clear nail polish. The method of using clear nail polish only works when you make it to use immediately not long term. It will not have a long shelf life. With that method the glitter settles to the bottom and gets stuck which means it's not useable. I know you may find some blogs or YouTube videos saying this works and to use a tooth pick to mix everything together, but I've tried this and I am not happy with the results. It quite frankly wasted my money.

So below are pictures of a Franken Polish kit that I order from an Etsy shop. There will be a link below to where and from whom I purchased it from. I paid $32 plus shipping fees. I think this kit is very affordable and you do get everything you need.

DIY Franken Polish Starter Kit No.2
by misfitson8th on Etsy $32

This kit includes:

* 4 oz. bottle of a clear suspension base. This suspension base is the main component of glitter polish. It keeps the glitter floating throughout the bottle instead of settling to the bottom. 

*6 mini (5ml) and 6 full size (15ml) empty nail polish bottles.

*24 Stainless steel agitator balls. This is what helps mix the polish together. 

*14 different kinds of solvent resistant glitters. You get one pack of 8 solids that every kit gets and you choose your glitter mixes from what she has available in which you get 6 glitter mixes. All mini zip lock bags come with 1 teaspoon of glitter (very generous size)

*2 measuring spoons and flower shaped funnel- the spoons aren't included normally with the kit but the funnel is. I asked if she would be kind to include mixing spoons. I offered to mention her in my nail tutorial videos since she is very nice and responds very quickly. 

A closer look at some of the pieces:

The suspension base
This is needed to make glitter polishes that will last.
4 oz. size shown 

Stainless Steel agitator balls
This is required for mixing purposes
24 count shown

Measuring spoons and funnel
The flower shaped funnel is part of the kit &
I asked for the spoons to be added.

So I hope this helps you with some supplies needed. Now the fun part is finding your favorite glitters and creating your very own nail polish. I really like this because I can create my own unique polishes that are perfect for me. I do have a video tutorial on how to make a glitter polish. This is my first creation and there's many more to come. Click here for that tutorial!

I really like Etsy for affordable loose glitter mixes. Click here to search for glitters

Misfitson8th Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/misfitson8th

My YouTube channel for makeup tutorials, monthly makeup favorites, product reviews and nail tutorials. Videos uploaded 2x a week!!! Don't forget to subscribe :) :) 

Thank you for stopping by and I hope you enjoyed this post. I would love to see your creations. Send me pictures via my Twitter 

xoxoxo

~Lexi

                                   

Too Faced "A few of my Favorite Things" Holiday 2013 palette Review

Hello makeup lover!

Today I have an exciting post for you. I recently purchased  Too Faced "A few of my Favorite Things" palette set from Sephora and all I can say is wow!!! This palette is so freakin' awesome you guys. This set includes 20 eyeshadows, 2 blushes, 2 bronzers, a full size Lip Injection Color Bomb, and a deluxe size Better than Sex Mascara all for $56!!! I definitely think Too Faced did a great job on this. There is a good mixture of colors, finishes and textures. I personally think all eyeshadows have a great color payoff, which at times can be lacking in larger palettes like this one. I really love all the shades available and the color combinations are endless. This set makes an awesome holiday gift for that makeup lover in your life!!

I hope you enjoy the pictures and mini reviews below. There will be many holiday tutorials coming up soon on my beauty channel. Click here to see my current videos and to submit any video requests :)

             

 

            Outside packaging 

Cute pink & gold chevron clutch

Palette with deluxe size mascara
& Full size lip plumper

Better than Sex Mascara ----> clever name!
It applies nicely to lashes but I don't think it
gives me the volume and thickness I like. The formula
is a bit wet and is a rich black color.

Lip Injection Color Bomb in "Bee Sting" (full size)
Honestly, it's not my favorite lip plumper. It feels
uncomfortable to me. It definitely has a stinging feel on the
lips, which sadly is a turn off for me.
The actual color is a nice nude-y pink.

A look inside the palette with the extra pieces of this
kit to the left

Gorgeous eyeshadows!!!!
So in love with the color selection, the finishes, textures
& great color payoff.

A closer look at the blushes and bronzers. It's a good
mix of colors that can go with any eye look.

**Swatch-y goodness below are in order as they appear by rows inside the palette.

Row #1 (names are R to L)
Snowflakes- shimmery champagne
Whiskers on Kitten- golden peach with chunky gold sparkle
Milk Chocolate- matte medium tan
Moon on Their Wings- rose gold with chunky sparkle
Dark Chocolate- matte deep intense dark brown

Row #2 (names R to L)
Cream Colored Ponies- matte creamy ivory
Honey Honey- metallic true gold
Buche de Noel- metallic golden bronze
Evergreen- shimmery hunter green
Blue Satin Sashes- intense matte teal with fine gold glitter
 

Row #3 (names R to L)
Coquet- shimmery golden pink
Taffy- baby pink with a light sheen
Crisp Apple Strudel-metallic
Wool Mittens- matte medium brown
Soiree- matte burgundy with ultra fine multicolor glitter

Row #4 (names R to L)
Tinsel- metallic yellow gold
Bluff- shimmery blue-ish purple
Ooh la Orchid- matte bright grape purple
Party Time- metallic deep navy
Pure Glam- matte carbon black with fine silver glitter 

Blushes & Bronzers  (R to L)
Raindrops on Roses- shimmery bright but wearable pink
Melt in Spring- matte coral
Chocolate Soleil- matte medium brown with actual cocoa inside *smells yummy
Sun Bunny duo- shimmery light tan & shimmery golden brown

I know that was a lot of swatches but I wanted you all to see how amazing these colors are. I definitely have my faves……Blue Satin Sashes (incredible pigmentation btw), Tinsel, Bluff, Party Time and of course Pure Glam (I'm blown away by the pigmentation of this color)

What are your faves?

Thanks for stopping by,

xoxoxo

~Lexi

Easy Fall Inspired Nails

Hello everyone,


Today I decided to do a fall inspired nail look and wanted to share with you the finished look. I really love this deep vampy wine red color for this season. To me it screams fall! And of course, the look wouldn't be complete without a little glitter. It's a great way to incorporate fall into your wardrobe. So I hope you enjoy this nail look as much as I do.

The finished look

Sinful Colors with gel tech in "Mirror Mirror"
& my d.i.y (franken) holographic glitter polish

My 1st franken polish
Holographic Gold glitter

The Sinful Colors nail polish can be purchased at your local Walgreens. As for my d.i.y polish, I have a video on how to make it coming up soon on my channel. I also have a few blog posts on the franken process coming with photos so check back soon. 

Want more? Follow me on Twitter to stay updated. Thank you for stopping by :) 

xoxoxo

~Lexi

Purple & Teal Look + Foundation Routine

Hello all,

Today I posted a bright but wearable jewel tone purple and teal makeup look on my channel. I also show my foundation routine along with other favorite everyday makeup products. Head on over to my channel to see a video tutorial on this fun and easy look. I used the holiday 2012 palette from Tarte cosmetics, which is one of my favorite makeup brands. Their eyeshadows are so awesome. In this look I used a charcoal gray on the lids, a jewel tone purple mixed with a shimmery pale lilac in the crease, a matte peach for my brow highlight and of course a nice pop of a deep teal on the lower lash line mixed with the same colors used on the lid. Below are pictures of the final look which I love! Try it out and let me know what you think :)

Want to see and know more? Keep with Me on Twitter
Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel :)
Want to read about my newest hobby ? P.S. it involves glitter

Thank you for stopping by and showing support!!!!
xoxoxo
~Lexi

Making D.I.Y Nail Polish & Helpful Tips

Hello everyone!


I have recently decided to embark on a new adventure with creating my own nail polishes. Yeah, you heard that right! I'm trying this whole "frankening" thing. I wanted to share with you all my recent loose glitter purchase from an Etsy shop.

So if you don't know what "frankening" is, then I'll explain this magical process. It's basically a term used loosely to describe homemade nail polishes. As to were or from whom that word came from, who knows. I have become familiar with the Etsy website and I have found many glorious things there. If you've never checked out the site, please do (link is at the end of this post). I found several listings of homemade nail polishes where most of them are pretty affordable. I wanted to order tons, and a thought just popped into my head. If these sellers can make them to sell, then why can't I? I'm not looking into selling my creations....yet! We'll see how this turns out first. Besides this way more fun and cheaper.

There have been many videos on YouTube and tons of blogs about "frankening" at home. Many of those can be useful. I tried to find as much information as possible to make a wise decision on what types or kinds of glitters to use and buy, the proper solution for making the polishes, materials needed and of course where to start this new hobby. After doing research, I was left with several questions needing answers which is why I feel some videos and blogs weren't completely helpful. So I have put a lot of effort into this idea and I would like to share my tips with you. I plan on doing several posts on this process, so if you want to know more as I go along then follow me on Twitter

One of my first glitter purchases from The Glitter Source on Etsy. This shop has tons of glitters available for nail polishes and crafts. Every possible size, shape and color is available. A bonus is that they are very affordable. If you want to browse their site click here---> Theglittersource
I purchased their Solvent Resistant Holographic Glitter Sampler set for $12 and it includes 8 small 2"x2" zip lock bags with about 1 teaspoon of glitter. I know 1 teaspoon of glitter doesn't sound like much but it will make several polishes especially when mixing different sizes and colors into one nail polish bottle. These little zip lock bags contain a generous amount too. The average amount of glitter sold individually through various glitter sellers on Etsy is about 1 teaspoon. A lot of sellers have larger amounts available for a little bit more money. I personally like sampler sets since it offers lots of color options more affordably like the one below.

It is very important to use Solvent Resistant glitter for making nail polishes. Why? Because being solvent resistant ensures that your polishes won't become tinted from the glitter color fading into the polish solution. Solvent resistant glitters perform better than craft glitter when put into glitter suspension base. I have tried the whole mixing clear polish with craft glitter and wasn't too pleased with the results. I will share that with you soon. I will do a post on glitter suspension bases as well so stay tuned.  Below are pictures taken in direct sunlight to show you all how beautiful these glitters are. I have enlarged the photos to display the holographic effect of these glitters. Holographic finishes are an extremely popular nail trend at the moment. More posts are coming in the future of d.i.y nail polishes and tips.

Solvent Resistant Holographic Sample set
$12

Jet Black

Sparkly white

Rainbow Purple

Rainbow Teal

Rainbow Gold

Rainbow Turquoise

Rainbow Rose

I really love the finishes of these glitters. I can't wait to share my creations with you all. Video will be coming soon too!

Shop on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/?ref=si_home

Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/glamourbylexi

I hope you found this helpful. Any questions or comments, please leave them below :) Thanks for stopping by,

xoxo

~Lexi

not sponsored