Why I Wear Makeup: My "Journey"

If I had a nickel for every time someone asked me why I bothered wearing makeup....
It seems a common phrase to hear nowadays: men and fellow women are always telling us that we needn't cake our face with makeup when we look so beautiful naturally. This used to make me seethe...why can't they just leave it alone? However, after giving the sentiment thought over the years, I've come to some different conclusions.

Aside from the fact that most (I strongly stress the word most) men do not know what a natural, makeup free face actually looks like, I now believe that these questions are genuine. Maybe these people do not think that makeup is bad, but that women are so beautiful without it. We should not take offense to this, but rather take it as a compliment. However, this points out the problem I see with assuming makeup is used for the sole purpose of covering up perceived "ugliness". Herein lies the explanation for why I, personally, choose to wear makeup.

After several years throughout puberty and beyond wearing makeup for the sole purpose of covering up imperfections, I now see the error of my ways. I had always held deep insecurities with my appearance, as any girl does, but it came to the point where the effort of it all was too much and I stopped wearing makeup altogether. Maybe it was the constant questions of why I bothered to wear makeup that contributed to it as well. As time went on, I began embrace my dark under eye circles for what they are, accept my pores as a part of my face, and find character in my misshaped nose. As cheesy as it may sound, I think I started to see my face for what it truly was, and for the first time began to see genuine beauty in it. (Now maybe the fact that I had gotten a boyfriend at this time who was constantly reminding me of that helped, but nonetheless I gained confidence that I had severely been lacking. I loved my face for what it was, as it was).

Then, and only then, did I allow myself to begin wearing makeup again. At this point I had decided to become an art major in college, and as I started to explore the world of YouTube, I saw makeup as an art form. My face became a canvas for me to create works of art upon. As I collected more and more products, the possibilities expanded (and my wallet contracted...). Each day, doing my makeup became a painting--an expression of myself. To me, the process of creating (AKA putting on my makeup) was much more important than the outcome. If time allowed, I would take off and reapply my makeup several times in a day because I enjoyed it that much. Because of the confidence I previously gained, I can now go days without makeup or with makeup, and it does not make a difference. I feel that I can wear makeup now for the enjoyment of it rather than the need for it. That is the most important part. I believe anyone who decides to wear makeup should at least in some part heed this lesson: makeup should not be utilized to create beauty, but rather to complement already existing beauty that is in all of us.

Now and again, I still find my confidence slipping and using makeup as a crutch. There was one day I decided to go to my classes with absolutely no makeup at all, something I had not previously done that semester. I was horrified to hear over five people ask me if I was feeling alright because my face looked sick. After the initial shock and thoughts that I would never venture out without makeup ever, EVER again, I realized that they were just not used to my face without makeup, but through my own efforts, they should be. I am still concerned with the fact that I look fourteen years old without makeup, but concede that one day, I will be grateful for my baby face. It is a process, but an important one at that.

Here it is: the before and after...

Two faces that are different and the same. Two faces I am proud to call my own.

Battle of the Reds

As you might have noted in my "about me" section of this blog, I am a lover of red lipstick. Actually, it is a bit of an obsession, and I tend to horde them. I have a long (and growing) list of red lipsticks I still covet. A red lipstick can transform any look and even be the focus of it. They give me the confidence I often lack. Finally, they are just simply visually pleasing. While many might not be able to see the difference between them (They're all just red, right? WRONG.), I see them each as unique and versatile.

This post is not intended to place one red lipstick above the rest (if there is any part of my makeup collection I cannot pick one favorite of, this is it!), but to compare the lot of them.

This is my collection of reds. To some it may be large, and to some it may be small. Personally, I am very satisfied with my collection but still yearn for even more. ;)

Listed from left to right:

NYX Cosmetics Slim Lip Pencil in 'Hot Red'
Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Cruella'
Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Red Square'
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 in 'Cherry'
Mac Retro Matte Lipstick in 'Ruby Woo'
Bite Beauty Luminous Crème Lipstick in 'Apricot'

 Let's take a deeper look:

Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Cruella' ($25):

This is my most worn out of all the reds. I bought it after I heard one of my favorite YouTubers, ViviannaDoesMakeup, mention it about 323453423 times on her channel and blog. I was not disappointed. Even though the price is a bit steep at $25, I do not regret it one bit. This is the deepest of all my reds--it is a scarlet red color. It think it is perfect for the winter because it looks good with my dark hair and pale complexion. As you can see from this picture, it has a very whitening effect on the teeth. The idea of these Velvet Matte Lip Pencils is genius. The pencil tip eliminates the need for a lip liner, and yet it is thick enough to go on in a few swipes like a lipstick. These are a bit drying, but in a bright lipstick that is what you want 'cause these babies will not budge!

Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Red Square' ($25):

This is my newest red lipstick in the collection. Again, it was another recommendation from ViviannaDoesMakeup. She is in love with these pencils just like I am. This is a beautiful orangey-red lipstick that is slightly reminiscent of Mac's Lady Danger. Being an avid lover of both red and orange lipstick, this combination of the two make me want to do a little dance. Depending on the light, this can look either more orange or more red. Again, the staying power is unrivaled. This past weekend, I ate a whole hoagie while wearing this and the lipstick was still going strong when I finished. This one in particular is actually quite difficult to get off!

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 in 'Cherry' ($22.50):

As you can probably tell, this is a sheer red lip color. It may not look that red in this picture, but I promise you it looks quite red in person. The glorious thing about this color is that it comes from a line of lip treatments. The Fresh Sugar Lip Treatments are one of my favorite things because they hydrate and heal your lips, while at the same time acting as a sheer lipstick. This red is perfect for someone who may not be ready/confident enough to wear a full-on bold lipstick or for a day where you want a more subdued red look. You also don't have to worry about it fading and having to reapply throughout the day. If it come off, it comes off and you have just had a very hydrating lip treatment! The application is also very easy because you can put it on without a mirror, while other red lipsticks require a lot or precision. Bonus points: it has a delicious lemon scent!

Mac Retro Matte Lipstick in 'Ruby Woo' ($16):

This was my first red lipstick and what made me want to by more and more reds. The best way to describe this one is a "classic red." It's not too dark, not too light, not too warm, not too pink, not too orange...it's just red! Mac Lipsticks are my all- time favorite lipsticks (I have 10...) and for a good reason! They are not overly expensive, they stay on a long time, have a good formula, and have an addictive vanilla scent. If would recommend that this be everyone's first red lipstick because it is so classic and so versatile. It's like the gateway drug of red lipsticks, hehe. However, be warned! Mac's Retro Matte finish is like matte to the MAX. If you do not prep this lipstick with a lip balm, you will be sorry! After an hour or two, it will look patchy and your lips will start to peel and flake. A lip balm prevents this though! Also, you must use a lip liner! Because it is so drying, the lipstick drags when you apply it. A lip liner just provides a boundary for where it will go. I use NYX Cosmetics Slim Lip Pencil in "Hot Red." This lip liner actually kind of stinks because it is not very vibrant, takes quite a few swipes to show up, and is very hard. It does the job, though!

Bite Beauty Luminous Crème Lipstick in 'Apricot' ($24):

This color reminds me of a juicy apple. As the name 'Apricot' suggests, it is a beautiful warm-toned red (as opposed to 'Cruella' and 'Ruby Woo' which are more cool-toned). Unlike most of my other red lipsticks, this one is not matte, but rather very creamy. Creamy finishes are my favorite because they are so hydrating, but admittedly not the best for bold lipsticks because it means they come off more easily. However, I accept it with this lipstick because the color is so beautiful. Also, application is a breeze! I find I can wear this one in public with the most confidence. I just make sure to take it off before eating so it won't end up all over my face.

Next up on my wishlist for red lipsticks? Nars Audacious Lipstick in 'Olivia.' No one does red lipstick like Nars does... This one is a dark red with a brown undertone... absolutely drool worthy! And I've heard the formula is like none other in its creaminess, pigmentation, and lasting power. I just need to muster up the courage to spend $32 on a lipstick...ouch.

That's all for now folks!

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner vs. Kat Von D Tattoo Liner

As a self-proclaimed winged liner addict, the search for the Holy Grail of all liquid liners has been a life-time goal. To me, the specifics of the winged liner are of upmost importance. The finish, ease of use, ability to make a point, staying factor, and how fast the liner dries out are all factors to consider. I'm still on the prowl for the eyeliner that checks all those boxes. For now, it seems as if once I finish one eyeliner, I go onto another brand hoping the next will be even better. I consider myself a wanderer when it comes to liquid liners. However, these two products I am about to mention may just change my ways.

Before I really got into makeup, I was a strictly drugstore girl. All my eyeliners came from the drugstore, and I didn't really have the knowledge to know the difference. Felt tip, liquid pot and paint...they were all the same to me. I did my liquid liner to the best of my ability and never stopped to consider if I was getting the best application. I can now say that I am a changed woman. Once I dove into the world of YouTube, I could no longer ignore the issues I had before. I now knew how winged liner was supposed to look, apply, and stay--I just had to have the right products to achieve my signature look.

As I did more and more research, two products seemed to rise above all the others: the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner and the Kat Von D Tattoo Liner. In my mind, I could not be the master of all winged liner without owning both.

Swatches:

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner ($20):

It's no secret that both of these eyeliners are a bit pricey. However, for me and anyone else who cannot live without eyeliner, the price is worth it. In fact, I might even be willing to pay more for these (but my wallet asks that they please not change the price). They are a lot cheaper than a potentially $30 lipstick or blush or a $50 foundation (Nars I'm looking at you...).
Anyhow, this is the first eyeliner of the two I tried. As it was the first higher end eyeliner I tried, I was completely blown away at the things I could do with this liner. I have used it every single day for months and months, and that was the reason it was mentioned in my 2014 favorites. This liner is a felt tip liner. It is super easy to get right up against the lashline, and you can just as easily achieve a thick line or a thin line. I find it simple to flick it along the lid and go from thin to thick as I reach the outer corner of the lid. I have heard some people complain about how the felt tip nib is too long and flimsy. I can see this being a big problem for a beginner or someone who does not have much control over their liner, but it did not really bother me. As I tried to capture in the picture with my swatches, this liner has a matte, almost leathery finish which I adore. It come out jet black with just one swipe.
The major problem I have with this liner is the way that the felt tip nib frays. After about a month of using it, little pieces of the felt would begin to dry up and flake off. It has done this more and more as time goes on. Now, as you might be able to see from the swatches, it is increasingly hard, to achieve a precise point with my winged liner. With that being said, I would still purchase this liner again because the matte black finish and precision I received at the beginning was unbeatable.

Kat Von D Tattoo Liner ($18):

This is the second liner I tried and, admittedly, I have not been using it for very long. However, I have used it enough to get a firm grasp of the liner and I must say that I have fallen head over heels for it. Instead of having a felt tip, this liner is kind of like a paintbrush in that it has tons and tons of little hairs that come together at a point. This was the selling point for me. There is no possible way that this tip will fray and lose its precision. And man, does this baby have precision. The short hairs make pointed winged liner so easy-peasy (as you can see from my swatches...that point took no effort at all!), but are flexible enough to sweep across the lid. The pointed hairs also make it incredibly simple to get a line right up against the lashline. The thinkness of your line can easily be built up and blended from thin to think. I never end up having way thicker liner than I intended (anyone who has tried liquid liner will know what I mean!) which could sometimes happen with the Stila liner. This is definitely one for the beginner and the experienced alike!
The only this I might change is the finish of this liner. As I tried to capture in my swatches, this liner has more of an inky finish than a matte, leathery finish. I sort of have to go over the liner a few times to get the dark, dark black that I want. I am not yet sure if this liner will dry out like the other one, but given the synthetic material the hairs are made out of and the fact that you can shake up the liquid inside of the pen, I do not think that will be a problem.

Side note: Both liners have absolutely AMAZING staying power! They are both said to be waterproof, and boy is that the truth! In fact, I kind of have to scrub with cleaner to get them off. Although you should not do this, if you slept in either one of them, it would still be intact in the morning (I've tried...accidentally). I did a little test with my swatches to see which would come off first after being on there for a few hours. When I washed my hands normally, neither of them budged. I then took a washcloth and scrubbed. The Kat Von D started to come off first, but the Stila came off literally one swipe later. And my hand was red after scrubbing them both off... I would say that they are about equal in staying power.

Overall thoughts: If I had to choose, I think the Kat Von D liner would win. I would repurchase that liner over the Stila one especially given the (slightly) cheaper cost. I do wish, however, that the Kat Von D liner had the matte, leathery finish of the Stila Liner. Now that would be the Holy Grail liquid liner!!

That's all for now folks!

My First Jo Malone Experience

Soooo....I have a confession. I secretly wish I was English. I cannot explain it entirely, but I just have this inner yearning to be a part of this place and culture. I know I am probably romanticizing some aspects in my head, but then again maybe I'm not. There is a poise and grace associated with the culture that I myself do not have, but wish to posses.  Not to mention, I would have access to some pretty amazing beauty products that are much more affordable than they are here in the U.S. ;)
I should also mention that I've never actually been to the Uk...but a girl can dream, right? I dream of one day living in a flat on the beach in Brighton....sigh.

Anyway, I have a point to this rambling, I really do!! I follow a bunch of beauty bloggers and YouTubers from the UK, and from time to time, they all rave about Jo Malone perfumes and about how there's something distinctively English about them. Ding ding! A bell goes off in my brain. If I cannot be English...maybe I can smell like I am? Well maybe that's not right... Either way, I knew I had to go and try these perfumes myself at my Local Bloomingdale's Jo Malone counter. I gathered some of my christmas money, finally able to afford one of these babies ('cause man are they expensive...).

What I did not know is that I was in for a whole 'Jo Malone Experience.' The Jo Malone line has seven different categories of scents which include: Fruity, Citrus, Floral, Spicy, Light Floral, Woody, and Cologne Intense. When I got to the counter, I was essentially bombarded by the sales lady with an offer to try every single scent there was. She was extremely friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, though. One of the special things at Jo Malone is that their fragrances can be combined to achieve different effects (i.e. a fresher or warmer scent) or be worn on their own. My saleslady was very keen on telling me which scents went together best.

So after smelling a multitude of fragrances, I had to narrow it down in waves. Funnily enough, the three contenders I ended up with were ones from each the Fruity, Citrus, and Woody categories. The one I ended up purchasing was actually the one I was most interested in trying because of the research I had done. I purchased the Wood Sage and Sea Salt fragrance. While it is categorized as Woody, to me it is much more fresh (and each of my go-to fragrances are fresh, clean scents). You really can almost smell a salty beach in this one bottle of perfume.

I have heard the Jo Malone Fragrances fade quickly. For me, I can definitely tell that it becomes less intense, but I can still smell it for hours (and I literally cannot stop sniffing myself...). It is definitely more intense than all of my Philosophy perfumes (which don't get me wrong, I still adore).

I just wanted to add that the whole experience is so luxurious. From the way the salespeople present the fragrances, to the way they have you try combinations on your skin, it was all very impressive. The way my saleslady packaged the perfume with bows and tissue paper made me regret opening it for fear of ruining a masterpiece. She was so precise in even making sure the ends of the ribbon were angled perfectly. I received two samples as well which was unexpected and delightful to me!

I would definitely recommend buying the 30ml bottle instead of the larger one because it is a lot cheaper (still so expensive though...ack!). The way I see it, I can go out be able to try another Jo Malone fragrance for the price of one big bottle. And although I really shouldn't, I don't know if I can resist buying another. I have my eye on both the Earl Grey and Cucumber and Nectarine Blossom and Honey scents. I shall keep you posted if I crack and end up buying another...

You can explore all the Jo Malone scents and other products they have to offer here.

That's all for now folks!

Best in Beauty 2014

2014 was the year of the makeup for me. I had always worn makeup in its simplest form (however my winged liner has always been present :D). This year I discovered the world of YouTube and dove deep into the beauty aspects of it. I began to truly adore the process of putting on makeup. Slowly, and then all at once, I was sucked into the obsession of buying new products any chance I had. I cringe at the thought of how much hard-earned cash I actually put into this little problem of mine.

However, I now have a bit of knowledge to show and a deep-seated love for my little horde of beauty products. I have found things I've fallen head over heels for and others that I haven't. Today I want to share with you the little treasures I've loved the most this year.

I've put them into categories accordingly. (Side note: there are some categories where I could not bear to pick just one, so I list a few...whoops!) Beware! This post is a bit chatty...

Makeup
Best Primer: Benefit's The POREfessional
This stuff is magical. Imagine that angelic noise that always plays in movies when something majestic happens. That's what I hear when I think about this. This product smooths over pores, makes skin feel like a baby's butt, and makes foundation stay all day, as well as look amazing. Not gonna lie, it's pretty weird at first because of its sort of plastic/rubbery feel when going on. But I could see this work instantly. The only bummer is the price...$30 for a tube! A bit more than I want to spend on primer but that's just me... I received a sample of this from Ulta. I used most of it before it accidentally met its demise behind my dresser, and I nearly cried. Think it's still there...gross.
Foundation:L'Oréal True Match Foundation in the shade 'N2'. 
This was my first real foundation discovery. I did a ton of research and found this came highly recommended from bloggers as an affordable foundation with high-end quality. I found the coverage, color, and blend-ability of this to be flawless. I will keep on repurchasing this over and over. 
Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Concealer in 'fair'
I discovered this product through EssieButton's many raves about it on her YouTube channel. I didn't expect much from it as I had not had great result's with drugstore concealers before. However, I wanted something cheap and went for it. Let me just tell you, this stuff kicks my Mac Prolongwear Concealer in the toosh. And I thought I couldn't get better. I have very angry Italian under-eye circles, and this baby covers them like none other. Iv'e already repurchased so many times...
Eyebrow Product: Anastasia Brow Wiz in 'Dark Brown'
One day this summer I woke up and suddenly realized that I had been plucking my eyebrows WAY too far apart for years. I decided to start the long process of growing them back to where they are supposed to start. This product was a lifesaver during my stubbly phase...right as I was going away to college for the first time! It helped me fake real eyebrow hairs. I still use it every day to give myself the thick eyebrow look I adore. Side note: as far as spooleys go, this one's as good as they come. A good spooley is key.
Powder: Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in 'Transparent'
I love this powder because this shade has no color. For me, it works extremely well to set all my makeup and keep it in place all day. You can use just a little to set things in place, or use more to give your face a more matte finish. The price is super affordable. Why buy a high-end powder when this one does the trick?
Bronzer: Nars Bronzing Powder in 'Laguna'
I bought this on a whim because Nars was having an online freebie special when you spend so much money (AKA a boatload of money). The price is steep but SO worth it. I find myself reaching for this over my Benefit Hoola Bronzer almost daily. It helped me become a contouring pro. I know shimmer is not usually wanted for contouring, but this shimmer in this is barely there and actually very gorgeous on the skin. Everyone should own this.
Highlighter: The Balm's Mary-Lou Manizer
I had heard a lot of hype about this and decided to give it a go. It honestly just has the perfect amount of shimmer to give your cheeks a glow without ever looking greasy. I can't see myself ever finishing this product because you just need the tiniest bit! I also love to use this as an inner-corner eye highlighter. 
Blush: Tarte 24 Hour Amazonian Clay Blush in 'Exposed'
I discovered Tarte's 24-Hour Amazonian Clay Blushes through this blush, and now I can't get enough. I have a few more shades now, but this will always be my favorite I think. It's such a pretty neutral color that goes with anything. Perfect with a bold lip or a light makeup look. I slapped this on every day before class this year.
Eyeshadow: Mac 'Woodwinked' and 'Satin Taupe'
I've almost filled an entire Mac shadow palette this year (I was a bit obsessed to put it lightly...), but these were the two colors that I kept coming back to consistently. In my opinion, both work best on their own blended all over the lid. The magical golden and copper color-transforming properties of Woodwinked that happen when you blend it out are just stunning. I can't get enough of how perfect it looks with winged liner. Satin Taupe is a unique color unlike any I had tried before. I adore how the color compliments the green in my hazel eyes. It's all-around gorgeous in the pan and on the lid.
Eyeshadow Palette: Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette
I was never much of a matte eyeshadow fan before I discovered this palette, but it has now completely converted me. I use this palette every single day before class and reserve shimmery shades for weekends and special occasions. I can play up any other aspect of my makeup with the look this palette gives me. I use the shade Foxy all over, Faint in the crease and outer corner, and Naked 2 to blend it all out. Perfect. I can't wait to get my hands on the Naked 2 Basics Palette...
Liquid Liner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeiner
I feel naked without my winged liner. I have tried many times to go for a makeup look without it and it just looks so wrong. I always end up doing the winged liner anyway. I guess it's sort of my signature. Anyhow, this product revolutionized my classic winged liner. The matte finish it has is wonderful and it really does stay on all day as the name suggests. (I have actually accidentally slept in it (wouldn't recommend...) and it was still intact in the morning! It is seriously so much nicer than drugstore liners that fade and dry out quickly. The only downside is that the felt tip frays...a lot. Still worth the price!
Gel Liner: Benefit "They're Real" Push-up Liner
When I heard about the release of this eyeliner, I literally counted down the days until it came out and got it that day. I will say that I have a rocky relationship with this one. It's a bit tricky to apply because the tip is so flimsy (which is good for some people) and I always feel like I waste so much product when I crank it up. However, this is my special occasion eyeliner because it takes a long time to apply but the finish it gives is by far my favorite, ever. My boyfriend always compliments my eyeliner when I wear it, and I don't think he knows the difference between my different eyeliners. That makes it a win in my book.
Masacra: Makeup Forever Smokey Extravagant Mascara
This mascara came as a sample size in my birthday gift from Sephora. At first I really hated it and was about to chuck it. Then I saw a YouTuber rave about it and decided to give it another try. I fell in love. I thought I only liked the plasticy mascara wands, but I was wrong. The hairs on this wand are wonderful and the tapered shape is nice for adding more volume to the outer lashes. As noted by others, I found that the more this mascara dries out, the better it gets.
Neutral Lipstick: Mac 'Modesty'
This was my first Mac lipstick and remains my favorite. I usually buy Mac lipsticks (and any makeup really) based on what I hear about it, but I never hear anyone talk about this lipstick, ever. I have no idea why, though, because it is the perfect neutral pink that isn't overpowering but actually has a lot of color. It is suited for everyday wear. I also think it would be perfect for brides. C'mon people, give Mac Modesty some well-deserved love!
Bold Lipstick: Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Cruella'
I heard about these beauties that are the Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencils from the many, MANY times ViviannaDoesMakeup has mentioned them on her YouTube channel and blog. She was not exaggerating. Cruella is the most perfect red in the whole wide world. It is a sort of darker red, but still has that "classic red" look. So many different types people would look lovely in this. The application is honsetly the most genius thing. It's so easy-peasy, trust me. I have a lot of red lipsticks, but I would say if you had to choose only one, CHOOSE THIS ONE! It's a bit drying which annoys me, but hey that means it's going to last for ages!
Lipgloss: Nyx Butter Glosses
Let me just say that I hate lipglosses. They feel sticky and gross, don't last long, and my hair always gets stuck in them. These are the exception to my rule. They look beautiful on the lips and the color payoff is quite good. AND they smell like cupcakes which is a definite plus. They have a really nice selection of nudes in this range. I especially love the color Madeleine!
Lip Treatment: Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask and Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15
Okay, so it's not really cheating because both of these products do quite different things. The Bite Agave Lip mask is like an industrial strength lip balm that completely heals dry or scabby lips. Leave it on overnight and it will work it's magic. Sometime I will leave it on the whole day as well. It feels so nice and relieving! The Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment come in a range of  gorgeous colors. The cool thing about them is that they are a lip treatment at the same as a beautiful lip balm/sheer lipstick. I love the shade Cherry because with it, you can have a red lip look at the same time you heal and hydrate your lips. Plus they smell delish.
Lip Scrub: Lush Mint Julips
Just a run of the mill lip scrub. It does what it says it does. What really makes this a win for me is that you can eat it once you have scrubbed your lips with it. This flavor in particular tastes really good! Think mint chocolate chip ice cream ;) Also, I just am in love with anything from Lush as you will probably soon realize.

Skincare
Origin's Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask
Quite a new discovery for me. But I can tell you that this is a miracle product for dry winter skin. Apply this all over the face and leave it on for a while. When you take it off, your face is super soft and smooth. I might try putting this on during the day for a bit instead of overnight because I haven't yet figured out if it clogs my pores too much.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
I've heard great things about this brand, so I had to try it when I was in need of a new facial moisturizer. I love that it can be used on your face as well as anywhere else on your body that needs healing. I have eczema during the winter and this is a miracle product for that. It also helped heal a rash around my nose. Use it sparingly, though, because it's quite heavy.
Lush Eau Roma Water
I use this every day as a toner. It's so refreshing, and if I need a little extra "wake me up" factor, this does the trick. I can just feel it purifying my skin and giving me a fresh palette for my skincare and makeup routine. 
Lush Ro's Argan Body Conditioner
This is probably my favorite skincare product of the year. I had lusted after this product for so long but didn't buy it because it was so expensive. I finally received it as a gift from my mom, and I can say that it is completely worth the money if I were to buy it on my own. First of all, the smell is out of this world. It is something you have to smell in person to truly understand. I usually HATE rose-scented things, but I am head over heels for this fragrance. I use it on my arms in the shower and it eliminates my need for body lotion. I want to make this product last forever.
Philosophy Purity Made Simple Cleanser
I never knew how good a cleanser could be until I tried this one. Before, I had always had to remove my eye makeup before my cleansing step. However, the Purity cleanser takes off all my makeup and deep cleanses my face all in one step. An added bonus: the smell is extremely soothing.
Ginger&Co. Soft on You Comforting Body Butter
Let me preface this by saying that this product is no longer available in the U.S. It was one of the saddest days of the year when I found out...(but also happy because they were basically free at Ulta as they were getting rid of stock). I have now used up all of my tubs of this and miss it so much. The smell is so light but so delicious. It's the perfect amount of scent that I want in a product I lather all over my legs. The formula of this butter is the best I have ever used. It reminds me of a marshmallow and simply melts into the skin. You can buy these on Amazon and have them shipped from the UK. My mom has already done so and I know I need to as well.
Soap and Glory Clean on Me Creamy Moisture Shower Gel
This is like a body butter and shower gel all in one. It bubbles and cleans at the same time as it moisturizes. The smell is what really sells me on this, though. If you haven't ever smelled the Original Pink fragrance from Soap and Glory, you need to. It is one of the most unique and addictive things in the world. I'm currently trying to milk this shower gel for all it's worth.
Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
This is an incredibly reasonably priced item you can pick up at the drugstore, Target, or Wal-Mart. I use a generous amount of the cream twice a day on my hands, and it works miracles. I have received so many complements on how soft my hands are from people who just brush by my hands. I have Dermatitis, which makes the skin on my hands incredibly dry. So for a product to completely reverse the effects of that like this one has...well, it's just unbelievable. 

Philosophy Sunshine Grace Perfume
I probably shouldn't even mention this because it was a limited time fragrance, but I have to. I was originally drawn to this perfume because of the name. I very much identify with the word sunshine, so I felt drawn to this fragrance. Philosophy's Pure Grace has been my signature scent for years...this seemed perfect because it is from the same range. The best way I can describe this perfume is that it is like Pure Grace but stronger, fresher, and summery-er. I am praying that Philosophy releases it again next summer...

Hair 
It's a 10 Miracle Leave-in Product
This is my favorite hair product of ALL TIME. I actually discovered it when it was used on me at the salon. The smell is amazing and people always, always notice it when they are around me. In addition, this product does so much... It conditions, makes hair touchably soft, heat protects, volumizes...you name it, it probably does it. I go through bottles of this so fast. Buy it now. That is all.
Bumble and Bumble Thickening Full-Form Mousse
This stuff is seriously expensive, so I can only afford the travel sizes. But I'm so glad I did have the chance to try it out. I'm in love with the orange peel scent this gives off. When this stuff says it adds tons of volume, it's not lying. It makes my long hair SO big. It also leaves a bit of residue at the roots that helps add volume and texture as well.

Nails
Essie 'Laquered Up' and 'Cocktail Bling'
Everyone knows that Essie is one of the best nail polish brands out there. While it has a steep price, the formula and color range are something you cannot get elsewhere. 'Laquered up' is an orangey-red color that goes with anything and 'Cocktail Bling' is a pastel periwinkle color. These were the two colors I found myself applying to my fingernails and toes over and over again this year.

Tools
Mac 217 Brush
This brush has completely revolutionized my eyeshadow application. I did not know how seamlessly I could blend eyeshadow until I owned this. Personally, I use this brush for both applying eyeshadow and blending it. It's simply one that everyone should own. In fact, you should probably own two!
Real Teachniques Buffing Brush
The prices of the real techniques brushes are to die for. Honestly, though, I would buy these brushes even if they were expensive. I have never gotten such a perfect, blended application of foundation than when using this brush. It is both dense and soft. I cannot see myself wanting or needing another foundation brush ever. For the price and quality, it is beyond perfect.
Tweezerman Tweezers
Believe the hype about these tweezers. After using these, all other tweezers seem dull and unusable. I used to use the slanted ones, but this year I have found that the pointed ones give a much more precise tweeze. Tip: if you can, buy the mini versions. They are a much better price and do the exact same thing.

These are the products that have been most loved by me in 2014. Here's to discovering many more in 2015!
That's all for now folks!

The Very First List

Although there are many topics I would love to jump right into writing about, I feel compelled to first write an obligatory "this is me" post. Because who really wants to read rambling posts from a weird stranger? I'll probably still be a weird stranger after this, but maybe a relatable weird stranger?

Here goes:

"This is real, this is me, I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be! Gonna let the light shiiiiine on me!" 
Kidding. (If you don't get the reference, shame on you).

Instead of doing the expected: a snoozy depiction of my admittedly mundane life in its full glory, I have decided to instead give you a series of lists. I do like a good list.

What I like:
    -Disney
    -a good inspirational quote
    -sausage (wiener) dogs and pugs
    -elephants
    -the color yellow
    -sunshine
    -being happy
    -complaining
    -listening
    -sculpting, drawing, and painting
    -photography
    -buying things I will later regret
    -eating clams
    -binge-watching me some Netflix
    -reading books and not knowing what to do with my life upon finishing
    -Doritos
    -chocolate
    -Harry Potter
    -Friends and Boy Meets World

What I don't like:
    -being cold
    -physical activity of any kind (including standing)
    -crying
    -being bored or lonely
    -getting bad grades (yes, I'm that person...can we move on now?)
    -driving
    -meat (not a vegetarian but rather a striving vegetarian. Judge me.)
    -losing video games (so I don't play.)
    -the noise that styrofoam makes
    -people who chew loudly
    -being tickled
    -nail polish that chips
    -rudeness
    -making decisions, big or small
    -lack of direction (just tell me what to do!!!)
    -hair knots

Well that's all folks! Now onto the more interesting stuff (I hope).