Wedding Wednesdays: A Vintage Birdcage

As you all know, I have now been engaged for, oh, almost three amazing weeks now and the planning has already begun.  I must say, for a bride-to-be, I am really rather organized.  So far, Allan and I have booked the venue, the caterer, the wedding planner, prepped a guest list and chosen the wedding theme.  (YAY.)  I'm quite proud if I do say so myself. 

However, since Red Lip Gloss is about beauty products and cosmetics, my fabulous friend (and bridesmaid) is going to be posting updates on the wedding progression on her blog, Rubyna.  She is a very crafty person and will be the key individual helping me with the DIY vintage projects.  So when she graciously suggested the wedding updates be on her blog, I eagerly accepted.

She is talking, today, about the fabulous vintage birdcage we found that will house the cards from friends and family.  So, go to her BLOG and check it out....

XO

The Girl With The Makeup Tattoos: Dior Velvet Eyes

It seems that the new trend is reusable makeup tattoos.  It first began with patterns for your pucker in many different prints (zebra print, roses and even polka dots) and now, pushing the boundaries even further, are eyeliner decals.  Yes, they are perfect for the girl who wants to be extra dramatic for a night out OR for the girl who is crap at doing eyeliner.  (Ahem, me.)  I want these sooooooo badly.

I saved the best for last though.  Not only are these eyeliner decals bold, daring and fun BUT they're created by one of my favorite cosmetic brands out there: Dior.  They have packaged the decals into a tidy little kit (with 4 different eyeliner styles) and are being sold for about $55 USD.  I will say that I haven't seen them anywhere in Canada (yet) but, according to InStyle Magazine, they can be purchased through Sephora.com.  Since the launch date isn't until September 8th, you won't be finding them on the website just yet.  I'll keep you posted though.

Sigh, check out the last pair in the set.  Aren't they gorgeous?  They would be perfect for my wedding day...seriously.  They have little rhinestones and everything...

What are your thoughts on the new decals?

XO

(Title quoted from InStyle Magazine September 2011 issue.  Page 180)

Finally, My First Luxe Box Arrived!

It seems like a YEAR ago that I signed up with Loose Button to receive their monthly Luxe Box.  (For those that aren't aware what Loose Button is, it's a company that sends you different miniature samples to try for a very minimal fee.  Loose Button is for us Canadian gals, while Birch Box, a similar company, is for our American friends.)

I signed up almost two months ago and, due to my poor timing, I had to wait until now to receive my first package.  And let me tell you, it was soooooo worth the wait.

My Luxe Box contained (from top left) Sheyna Earrings (which was a very special additional freebie), City Lips by City Cosmetics (lip plumping serum), Proclaim Cocoa Butter Hand & Body Lotion, Laura Mercier Perfecting Water and Calvin Klein's Forbidden Euphoria Fragrance.

I was most excited by the additional earrings since I've tried most of these other products before.  However, it's always lovely to get small sizes for travelling instead of trying to find little plastic bottles to fill up yourself.  Check out these earrings though.  So cute right?

They are super dainty and feminine.  Perfect earrings that are totally work appropriate.

What did you get in your Luxe Boxe?  Anything different than me?

XO

DIY Beauty Fridays: The Miracle of Bananas

Bananas are a very interesting fruit.  First, they grow in huge bunches on trees.  (Well, at least we call them trees.)  Second, they are one of the only fruits that can be eaten (and enjoyed) when they're not fully ripe.  Third, they come in different sizes, shapes and colors.  However, as interesting (or strange) the banana is, one can not deny how good they are for your body....and your skin.

Anti-Wrinkle Banana Facial Spread

1 medium banana

Almond oil (optional)

Honey (optional)

Mash the banana in a bowl and add EITHER some honey or almond oil.  (Enough to make a thick paste).  Spread evenly over freshly cleansed face.  Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse off with cool water.  **I added in the optional items because they make the banana a bit easier to spread on face plus almond oil and honey are really great for your skin.  However, you don't need to add them if you don't want.

Why this works?  Bananas contain tons of vitamins, valuable fats and acids that make your skin extremely stretchy and smooth.  Bananas make your skin supple and radiant.  I highly recommend this spread because, once done, you're skin will have a glow that wouldn't normally occur with other skin care products.

I'll be honest, bananas aren't normally my favorite food but I am slowly learning to love them.  They are a huge addition in the new diet I'm trying plus knowing that I can make some easy and fabulous skin care products with them makes these yellow bad boys my new super-fruit!!

Happy Friday and weekend ladies!

XO 

The Worst Celebrity Trends EVER!

Do you flip through fashion magazines and wonder what these people were thinking when they got dressed in the morning?  Okay, I do, all the time!  Sometimes the fashions can literally be so gorgeous and perfect and other times...well, let's just say I'm glad I don't have tons of money to wear all these crazy things.

Spiked Dresses

Am I the only person that finds this trend hideous?  Kristen Cavallari is a gorgeous girl but then she goes and wears this atrocious outfit.  She should be playing football or something...

MC Hammer Pants 

You couldn't pay me to wear this trend, honestly.  First, if you're not a size 0 you can't pull this off and second, if you're name is not MC Hammer then you, again, shouldn't even attempt this trend.  I will say there is this girl in my office that wears this trend a lot and though she always looks super cute, it's still not a trend I would ever follow.

Shorts and Uggs

Did you know that Uggs are a winter boot?  Oh you did know that?  Yeah, so did I.  So, how come Britney Spears doesn't?  I really don't understand the joy of pairing heavy winter boots with summer skirts or shorts.  Honestly, don't your feet get hot?  Not only that but they are really unattractive boots.  I'm guessing that's why they're called Uggs...

Over-Sized Boyfriend Jeans

So I adore boyfriend jeans.  I actually bought my first pair the other day and the fit me absolutely perfect.  The key word being "fit".  Yes, even though boyfriend jeans are supposed to be slightly more relaxed and less form fitting, they are still supposed to fit you.  It looks like Katie may have pulled these right out of Tom's side of the closest.  Unfortunately, they are just much to big for her.

What do you guys think of these trends?  Are they a hit or miss for you?

XO

The Skinny on Blushes: What Types and What Work!

Blush is slowly becoming one of my favorite beauty products.  Being as pasty pale as I am normally, blush gives me the color I am so lacking.  Plus, when put on properly, it adds so much to the angles of your face.  Honestly, you can have model-worthy cheekbones with the perfect pink tone.  Oh, I should also mention, you can also create drool-worthy cleavage with a good blush too.  (Hey, I do what I have to....ha.)

Thanks to my pal over at Vintage Makeup who, after reading my Skinny on Concealers post, kindly suggested I do a similar blush post and I am soooo glad she did  (thanks so much lady!!).  I may not be a professional makeup artist BUT man, do I know a lot about blushes.  (Some good and some bad.)  So, for those that aren't aware, there are four different types of blushes: loose powder, pressed powder, cream, liquid (aka gel, in some areas) and pencils/stick.  (Of course, if you count highlighters and bronzers there'd be seven but, to me, these aren't blushes.).  All five are designed to give your cheeks that perfect warm hue but some do the job better than others.  Here's a list of my personal faves, broken down by type:

Loose Powder Blush: Avon Smooth Minerals Blush

It's no surprise that I am a huge fan of Avon products.  Their products are actually really great and no where else can you find a mineral blush for under $12.  It's unbelievable!!  This blush is great because it goes on smooth, doesn't make your skin oily and is very long lasting.

Pros:

Inexpensive

Long-lasting

Colors are all nice and subtle

Doesn't cause your skin to become greasy or oily

Cons:

Must be ordered either online or through an Avon rep

Pressed Powder: Illamasqua Powder Blush

So, this was a toss up for me.  When I think powder blush, I would always say NARS with no hesitation.  However, my allegiance seems to have changed since trying this brand.  Illamasqua makes a FABULOUS powder blush.  For the money, the blush colors are extremely pigmented and they feel virtually weightless on your cheeks.  Another thing is that they last a long time, both on your skin and in the palette.  Trust me when I say a little goes a long way.

Pros:

Fantastic colors (Hussy is my FAVE)

Extremely pigmented

Long-lasting on your skin

Virtually weightless 

Glides on very smooth 

Very blendable

Cons:

Price could be a factor for some

Not available in Canada (well, not in Vancouver, anyway)

Cream Blush: Estee Lauder Signature Satin Cream Blush

It still surprises me that I've yet to RAVE about this product in a post.  Seriously, for years this was my go-to blush.  Does it help that my mom worked with Estee Lauder, oh probably, but seriously, this blush glides on sooo smooth and doesn't settle in your lines or skin imperfections.  Plus, it's not overly creamy.  By this I mean there is no stickiness once it's on your skin.  

Pros:

Amazing price for the quality

Long lasting on your skin

Doesn't settle in pores so it makes skin look younger

Intense color so a little goes a long way

Doesn't make your skin oily so though it's made for drier skin, can work on anyone

Cons:

Not enough colors 

Liquid Blush: Benefit Posie Tint Cheek Stain

How I lived as long as I have without this product still amazes me.  I first discovered Benefit High Beam and, after I realized how great it was, I branched out to other products.  Like the Posie Tint for example.  This liquid dries in an instant and adds a sheer pink tint to your cheeks (or lips).  Best part of this blush is how long it lasts.  Seriously, I apply this in the morning and when I take it off at night (some 14 hours later) it still looks fabulous.  

Pros:

Water resistent

Extremely long lasting

Very dramatic color

Easily applied (even if you're not a blush pro)

Dries instantly

Looks very natural

Cons:

Should you use too much, it can stain your fingers a little

Can be hard to spread if you apply too much 

Stick Blush: Joe Fresh Style Cheek Tint

Did you know that this blush stick is only $4...YES, I know.  $4!!!  Hence why this had to appear on my faves list.  Not only is the price good, but the product is remarkably good too.  The colors are very pigmented and they are very easy to bend into the skin.

Pros:

Easy to apply

Can be used on lips as well

Doesn't make skin oily 

Have a wide range of colors

Cons:

Can be sticky when applying

Cheap quality (you get what you pay for)

Blushes (like everything else) are a very personal choice and what might work for me may not work for you.  I highly suggest trying out all the different types of blushes and find the one that works best for you.  I will say that with all the different types and brands out there, you're bound to find your go-to product!

XO

Apothica Giveaway Winner Announced

Thanks again to everyone who entered the giveaway AND to Apothica for sponsoring it.  So, without further adieu...  The winner is:

YAY to Gaby for winning the giveaway!  I can't wait to hear what you purchase with your gift card.  Congrats again lady!

XO

My Newest Nail Polish Haul

When I decide to buy a new cosmetic, I can never just buy one.  Seriously, it's a big issue.

Take my latest nail polish haul, for example.  I was going through my polish collection and realized I didn't have a mint green/blue color.  So, I went to the drugstore and picked up a mint color AND a fuscia purple color.  Then, I went to Superstore to look at the Joe Fresh product line and bought three more nail polishes.  After that, I came home and bought three new Avon polishes.  Needless to say, I bought eight polishes instead of the intended one.  And the worst part is, because I'm crap at painting my own nails, I don't even end up using them as often as I should.  But honestly, these colors are so gorgeous that I couldn't pass them up:

GOSH Cosmetics is such a fantastic cosmetic line.  And I am happy to say that their polishes are really great too!  (The pink one has been on my toes for the past week.)  From left to right the colors are Miss Minty and Flamingo.  By the way, they were on sale for $7 a piece which I think is an absolute steal.

Here are the Avon polishes.  From left to right the colors are Mambo Melon, Cotton Candy and Sunshine.  I haven't used any of these polishes yet but can't wait to paint my nails that pretty coral color.  Plus, they were a steal at 3 for $6.99.

Can I just say that the Joe Fresh polishes are definitely some of my faves.  I can't get over how bright and cheerful the colors are!   From left to right the colors are Pineapple, Cobalt and Papaya.  These polishes were on special at 3 for $10.

As you can see, I chose Cotton Candy for my nails today.  I love the pink color, as it's not overbearing, but still seems to go with every outfit.

What has been your recent favorite nail polish color? 

XO

DIY Beauty Fridays: Homemade Apricot Conditioner

Hello beauties!!  I haven't posted in a couple days and it's been making me CRAZY, literally.  However, I was hanging with my mom yesterday evening and a great friend on Tuesday night so, you know the drill; there just isn't enough time in the day to do everything you want.  I was so excited to come home after work today to relax, write a DIY post AND deep condition my hair.

As you all know, I'm growing my hair out into a banged bob and, for any of you that have had short hair and have grown it out, know that I'm at the mullet stage right now.  Plus, since my hair is overprocessed from all the straightening I do before going to work in the mornings, I need a great conditioner that will tame my hair beast.  This conditioner is AWESOME because it contains apricots and honey.  Check this out...

Honey & Apricot Deep Conditioner

1 small apricot

2 Tbsp honey

1 Tbsp apricot oil (aka apricot kernel oil which can be purchased at any health food store)

Remove the pit from the apricot and blend all ingredients together in blender OR with hand mixer.  Apply to freshly washed hair and leave on for 30 minutes.  (Cover your hair, though, with plastic wrap or a plastic bag though to keep it from dripping everywhere.)  Rinse with cool water.

Why this works?  WHO KNEW that apricots are jammed packed full of great vitamins for your hair.  They contain beta-carotene, vitamin A and vitamin C all of which make for healthy hair and skin.  This treatment is fab because it helps tame the frizzies and hydrates dry hair as good as any expensive oil treatment on the market.  (I should probably say that this treatment will be a miracle on anyone who has extremely coarse hair like me.)

I can not wait to hear what you think of this treatment.  Let me know if you do try it out.

PS - I've started planning my vintage DIY themed wedding.  However, since most of the things I'm planning don't revolve around cosmetics, I've decided to post wedding updates and upcoming projects on my crafty friend's blog Rubyna.  Since she's playing a major role in most of the wedding planning AND she's the one with the crafty touch, I thought who better to give updates than her.  Stay tuned because she'll soon be hosting Wedding Wednesdays.  Eeeeck, I can't wait to show you what we've been up to!!!!

XO

2 Awards...For Me???

I LOVE being nominated for awards.  Whenever I get a little notification about it I get all giddy!  I was nominated for two different awards by two very special blog friends of mine: Tara from Haute Lunch and Mandy from MandysSecrets.  Both ladies write beautifully fun blogs and I read them religiously.  Not only are the both extremely talented writers but their posts are amazing.  I always click on their blogs KNOWING I'm going to be learning something special and they never disappoint.

Tara nominated me for the Best Blog Award

Mandy nominated me for the Lovely Blog Award

So, rules for both awards state that I must reveal 7 facts about myself that you don't already know....Hmmmm

1. I am beyond obsessed with reality TV.  Shows such as Hell's Kitchen, LA Ink, The Bachelor/Bachelorette, What Not To Wear, Say Yes To The Dress and Toddlers and Tiaras definitely top the list

2. I can not paint my nails at all.  I was asked to do a post about nail polish a while back and, honestly, I am so bad at painting my nails that I still haven't written it

3. I would give up my condo, my career and all my belongings to be able to travel the whole world.  First stop would be France and Italy without a doubt

4. I wish I was a crafty person.  I look at things that people create with their hands and am so jealous because I am not talented that way.  However, thanks to my crafty friend, Bronwen, we're going to be planning my vintage DIY wedding by undergoing some major crafty things....soooo pumped

5. I am very intrigued by ghosts and spirits.  I would love to tour Alcatraz and even stay at the Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast....Yes, I am crazy....ha

6. I am trying to lose a little bit of weight (10 pounds) and it is the hardest thing I've ever done.

7.  I quit smoking about two years ago and I still miss it and think about it often

Whew, do you feel like you learned a bit more about me?  I hope so....For the Lovely Blog Award, I nominate: Vintage Makeup, PopBlushing, The TraceFace Philes, Two Eyes in the Mirror, and Savvy Spice

For the Best Blog Award, I nominate: Prettymaking, Lipgloss and Flipflops, Confessions of a Beautyholic, Funny Face Beauty, and The Non-Blonde

XO

He Proposed, She Said YES!!!

Even typing this now, I'm still extremely giddy.  Allan, whom I've been with for about 5 years now, proposed to me on Saturday morning, quite unexpectedly.  I say unexpectedly because I had no idea he was going to do it then though it's something we've been talking about for a long time.

Picture this: It's just him and I, lying in bed and before I'm getting ready to make us some breakfast he leans to me and says some of the sweetest things I've ever heard before pulling out this beautiful ring.  It was honestly the most perfect proposal ever.  (I should begin by saying that I don't really like being the centre of attention and always said that to me, a proposal is something that should be shared between him and I only....it was beyond perfect.)  And, the ring ladies?  Not only does he know exactly what I like but he picked a style that has a vintage vibe to it.  I am over the MOON!!!!

I don't usually talk too much about my personal life but I needed to share this with you.  Plus, we've begun planning this fantastic vintage DIY wedding and it's going to be fabulous.  I can't wait to share some of the details as they emerge.

I am the luckiest girl in the world.  Not only am I going to be marrying the man of my dreams but also someone who is my best friend.  Eeeeekkkk.....I am so excited for the journey ahead!!

Thanks for listening and XO to all of you

DIY Beauty Fridays: Homemade Cleanser for Clogged Pores

The past few weeks have been pretty stressful for me and the weird thing is, I don't even know why.  I honestly have absolutely no idea why it is that I am so stressed.  So, you can imagine my relief that it's Friday (and casual day at work...yes!) which means it's finally "pamper myself" day.  And, seriously, my skin needs it....BAD.  I was looking at my nose in the mirror the other day and was shocked to discover tons of little blackheads.  Yes, those gross little black dots.....ON MY NOSE.  I realize that blackheads are fairly common, and I've had them before, but these were a bit different.  The seemed to be rather inflamed blackheads.  Not a good combination, let me tell you.  So, I raked my brain for the perfect cleanser and came up with this bad boy...

Cleanser for Clogged Pores

1 Tsp. milk

1 Tsp. honey

1 Tbsp. ground almonds

Mix all ingredients together and apply to your face.  Scrub lightly for a few minutes and then rinse off with cool water.  **Quick Note: You can buy ground almonds but they are really hard to find.  So, if you have a food processor or blender, you can grind your own but make sure they are blanched/skinless almonds.

Why this works? Almonds are known to prevent wrinkles as well as works wonders on blackheads.  Not only that but almonds also gives you skin a great glow and really makes for a flawless complexion.

Sigh, I can't wait to go home, put on my kimono robe, some fuzzy slippers and cleanse my face.  What a life I lead....Let me know if you try this recipe out ladies!  I'd love to hear what you think!!

XO

Fall Must-Haves: The Banged Bob

Look at this chick!!!  Isn't she just about the cutest thing you've ever seen?  This is my amazing friend Julie and not only is she a fabulous friend/almost sister but she has AMAZING hair.  In fact, my sister is her hair stylist.  (I know, crazy right?)  Ever since the first time I saw Julie's haircut, I decided it must be mine.  Well, at some point it must be mine....

Hence why I'm beginning to grow my hair.  Now, you all know that I already have shorter hair but since one side of my hair is longer than the other (think Rhianna's hair pre-extensions) it's been a very slow, and sometimes painful venture.  However, I'm extremely committed to this daunting task because I want Julie's haircut!!!

So, for some additional motivation (for me.....sigh) here are some of the cutest banged bobs out there...

Am I the only one upset that Katie Holmes has decided to grow out her hair?  This look was perfect for her.

Though it's a bit longer than I'd like, I love the super straight edges.  It's gives it more of a rocker vibe

Not the best picture of Rhi-Rhi but still, the hair is fab.  I definitely prefer this look to her bright red extensions.

The color of this bob is what makes the cut POP.  Plus, there's something really popular right now about a strawberry orange hue...

Oh Agneyss Deyn you rock!  This girl is stunning; not only can she pull off a bob but her new super short pixie cut looks amazing too!!!

Hair is one of the most important things to me and I feel relieved knowing that I've picked my next style.  I guess the only decision is whether I want to stay red or maybe go for the platinum blonde????  Hmmmmm, decisions...

XO

Dottie Dot

Dottie Dot by redlipgloss featuring mini bags

 

Today was my flex day which means I had today off.  (One of the best things about my job is that in addition to never working weekends I also get every second Monday off work....YAY).  So, being that it was a day off, I had a lot of errands to run and one of them was going to visit the Doctor.  (Always my least favorite thing to do.)  However, the office had the new issue of Elle Canada which made me very happy.  The magazine had a fantastic post about polka-dots, a trend that will never go out of style, and it made me realize how much I adore black and white polka-dots.

Not only are B&W polka-dot items classy but they are oh-so sexy and bold, without being too over the top.  Plus, when paired with red heels and red lipstick, it's an absolute vixen look.

What are your thoughts?  Do you like B&W polka-dots?

XO

Treat Your Face to a Chemical Peel: From Home

Aside from eyeshadow, skin care products are, without a doubt my favorite item.  There is something so rewarding about finding a product that not only does what it's designed to do but makes your skin feel fantastic.  The only downside to finding new skin care product that works is the research time.  I am probably the most impatient person (in the world) and hate having to stick to products for a few weeks before being able to blog about them and these two products are no different.  As soon as I started using them, I wanted to shout to everyone how great they are but, I stuck to my guns, waited a couple weeks and am ready to burst.  The two products I'm talking about are Avon Anew Clinical Advanced Retexturizing Peel and DHC Coenzyme Q10 Cream.  

Never have I been more excited to try a product than I was with this new item from the Avon Anew Clinical line.  It claims to "safely peel away dullness, reduce signs of aging and help your skin to self-neutralize...all in one step".  Let me tell you that even from the first application, I was BLOWN AWAY: My skin felt extremely smooth, the texture was beginning to brighten and the faint lines on my forehead weren't apparent at all.  Since that first treatment (I've had about 5 now), my skin looks more radiant and my pores seem to be less clogged.  This is one of the best purchases I've ever made....

Pros:

Price is really good (about $25)

Helps to brighten skin tone

Makes skin more radiant

Only used once every two days 

Easy to use pad comes pre-saturated with product

Unclogs pores

Skin appears much more youthful as it seems to diminish lines

Texture of skin greatly improves

Rough skin patches no longer present

Cons:

Must be ordered through an Avon rep

I received quite a few samples from DHC and about three of them were of this bad boy.  I instantly liked the texture of the cream and loved that it didn't make my skin feel oily or slick.  I ordered the moisturizer shortly after that and haven't looked back since.  I love this cream because it resembles my favorite Lancome cream without the hefty price tag.  DHC is known for their use of olive oil and this cream not only has that as an ingredient BUT also packs the "Vitamin Q" which is a powerful antioxidant and makes your skin more radiant and youthful looking.  The best part of this cream is that a little goes a long way so though the container is small, it's definitely going to last me a long time.

Pros:

$47 is a great price for an anti-aging cream

Packs all the benefits of more expensive product lines

Lasting moisture without being too oily 

Can be used as both a night and day cream

Skin is smoother and much more radiant looking 

Can be shipped to Canadian residents 

Cons: 

Can only be ordered online

These past couple weeks (while using these products) have really impacted my skin in a good way.  I am breaking out less and my skin feels smooth and soft which hasn't really happened before.  My skin just finally feels like it's under control.....finally.  If you're on the hunt for a skin treatment, I highly recommend you try the Avon Anew Clinical line and, in particular, this retexturizing peel.  It works wonders.  Plus, DHC has many many many different skin care lines.  I firmly believe in their products and though the Q10 cream might not be for you, have a look and see if there might be something up your alley.

XO

What's Your Face Worth?

As I was putting my makeup on this morning, I got to thinking about money. Now, this is a regular occurrence for me (as Allan and I have some big things coming up next year that we’re saving for) but for some reason today seemed like a great idea to find out my face’s worth. (Ha, that sounds funny.) So, here’s what I used to create my look today AND their prices…

                                  Dior DiorSkin Forever Extreme Wear Flawless Makeup
                                                           SPF 25 in Ivory - $55

Youngblood Ultimate Concealer in Light - $25

Clinique Superpowder Double Face Makeup in Matte Bisque - $25

Gosh Big Sun Powder Bronzer - $25

NARS Blush in Super Orgasm - $29

Avon 12-in-1 Eye Palette (Beige and Gold applied) - $17.99

SMASHBOX Cream Liner Palette - $24 (At the duty free)

Rimmel London Lash Accelerator Mascara - $9.99

Illamasqua Lipstick in Over - $22 (Bought in the USA)

So, all together, to purchase this look the total is $182.98. To be honest, I actually expected this to be quite a bit more SO I’m back to being a happy girl….Ha

I would love to see other posts like this if you care to partake. Let me know if you do!!

XO