December Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

ColourPop Smoke n Whistles Cheek Shock Highlighter
I've owned this for awhile but I recently started reaching for it more around the holidays. This highlighter is SO shimmery. It's beautiful but I feel like it's too much for everyday wear. I like wearing it for night outings and special occasions. The texture is really neat - a bouncy cream that dries to a shimmery powder. If you want an extra shimmery highlighter, this is for you!

November Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

Chella Tantalizing Taupe Eyebrow Color Pencil
I received this in my Birchbox. I assumed this was a sample - but it's actually full size; the product size is equivalent to ABH Brow Wiz. This taupe color matches me surprisingly well. The tiny, precise point is so easy to work with. I've been reaching for this over NYX Microbrow and ABH Brow Wiz.

CocoLuxe Organic Coconut Oil Squeeze Tube
I went on a cruise the week of Thanksgiving. I knew coconut oil had to come with me, but I had no idea how to safely travel with it. After a quick Google search, I discovered CocoLuxe. I'll admit $11.99 for 3.4oz is a total rip-off; (I'm used to purchasing 16oz for under $9.) The convenience of the squeeze tube and knowing it wasn't going to leak all in my suitcase was totally worth the price. (You can buy it here.)

October Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

ColourPop Smoke N Whistles Super Shock Cheek
This formula is so unique - it's sort of bouncy; it's somewhat cream-like but dries to a powder. I really like how shimmery this highlight is. On the downside, the color is slightly too dark for me, I'll probably be back for a few more colors soon.

Maybelline Volum'Express The Rocket Mascara
This is hands-down my favorite mascara of all-time. I strayed away from it for awhile (to use up some high-end beauty box samples). Every time I open a new tube, I can't believe I took a break from it.

August Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

July Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

ELF Shape & Stay Brow Pencil
I mentioned this back in my March Favorites. I've still been really liking this product and using it almost daily. I've been growing out my brows, so instead of constantly plucking them, I've been relying on this to shape my brows.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Glow Stick Glistening Illuminator
I've been wanting a cream highlighter for awhile. When I found this in my PO box, I was over the moon. Most highlighters have a pink or orange undertone that doesn't really work for me. Luckily, this one is more of a pearly-yellow. I finally discovered the best way to apply this is just with your fingers; it melts onto the skin and gives a beautiful glow that stays almost all day long. (Disclaimer: I received this product complimentary for testing purposes from Influenster.) 

Marcelle Xtension Plus Curl Mascara
I received this in my July Birchbox. "Great, another mascara sample." was my first thought. But come to find out, I really like this mascara. It lengthens and curls, as it claims. If you're a fan of Benefit's Rollerlash, you'll really like this, as well.

Nivea A Kiss of Milk & Honey Lip Balm
In July, I started Invisalign - which means I had to say goodbye to most of my (tinted & glossy) lip products. (The clear trays stain really easily.) I resorted to an oldy but goody - this balm. I went and purchased a few more. This balm is now everywhere I need it: my purse, desk, and nightstand.

Ouai Wave Spray
I received this in my July Sephora Play! box. (For whatever reason, it arrived without a label.) This spray is great - it's lightweight and adds a lot of texture to get the beachy waves look. I really like the fresh scent, as well.

brow wax & wave spray,
-Kaitlyn

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June Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

Batiste Strength & Shine Dry Shampoo
Target didn't have the Fresh scent that I really liked. So I purchased this scent on a whim; it's equally as good. Batiste shampoos work great at absorbing all oil and don't make your hair weighed down. I don't feel like this product adds loads of shine, as it claims. But I do really like the clean scent and fresh feel.

Benefit Gimme Brow in Medium
I tried out Gimme Brow in Light and Dark over a year ago. Dark was too dark; light worked but needed to be a tad bit darker. I'm so glad Benefit finally came out with more shades in all of their brow products! Medium is exactly the shade I've been looking for. I've been very into minimal makeup lately, so this 2-in-1 (tamer & filler) tinted brow gel has been getting a lot of use! (Birchbox sample is photographed - the full size is slightly larger.)

Glossier Cherry Balm Dotcom Salve
I've been using Coconut Balm Dotcom for a few months. Glossier recently released a bunch of new scents, I liked the coconut one so much, I also bought it in cherry. The cherry balm smells like childhood - Lip Smackers. Unlike the coconut one, the cherry balm has slight coloring that gives the lips a beautiful rosy tint.

Pixi Glow Tonic Exfoliating Toner
I've been having a lot of skin issues lately - like redness, bumps, and acne. A few different YouTubers raved about this. So I decided to give it a try. I've been applying this toner before bed all month and I've noticed my skin evening out again. It makes my skin feel very refreshed and clean.

shiny hair & cherry lips,
-Kaitlyn

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April Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet
This has been the best moisturizer I've tried to date. It's pricey at $39, but I think it's well worth it - especially if you spend Birchbox points on it. This moisturizer feels and smells so amazing. It's great on my normal-to-dry skin.

L. Erickson Grab & Go Pony Tube 
These ponytail holders are like acceptable (modern day) scrunchies. They keep my thick hair in-place without damaging my hair or leaving major creases. I received my first one in my Birchbox nearly a year ago. I panicked whenever it became a cat toy and decided to finally own more than one.

MAC Whirl Matte Lipstick
I've been eyeing this MAC lipstick for awhile. I gave one away in April, and I got one for myself to celebrate my blog turning six! This brown/mauve/my-lips-but-better shade would work on all skin types. I like applying a light sweep - it's build-able, too! I love the feel and smell of MAC lipsticks. It's been awhile since I've had a fresh tube!

Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm
This is an excellent night time lip balm. This balm is very thick - but in a good way. It has a pleasant orange scent. I've already finished one pot in my last empties post. I decided to go ahead and purchase another. My first pot was $19, I'm happy to see the lowered the price to $15. (You can get this 20% off during beauty.com's upcoming Friends & Family sale.)

modern day scrunchies and orange lips,
-Kaitlyn

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December Favorites

Favorites posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. I feel like I'm cheating a bit, I had two of these products only half the month of December but they quickly became my daily go-tos.

Batiste Dry Shampoo in Fresh 
I tried the original formula of Batiste years ago; I didn't really care for it. I decided to try Batiste again, and I'm glad I did. I purchased the scents Sassy (which really reminds me of Tyler Candle's Diva fragrance) and Fresh. Both leave the same results but I like the way Fresh smells a whole lot better. The scent is like fresh laundry mixed with a hint of salon. It's weird - but I like it. The spray comes out and immediately leaves a white residue but I just rub it in or brush it out. This dry shampoo absorbs oil super quick and adds texture. I typically wash my hair every three days; with this product, I've been pushing four or five days.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O w/ Pump
I tried a sample of Bioderma towards the beginning of the year. I really liked it but just didn't want to pay that much for makeup remover. (I tried the Simple Micellar Water, which was effective - but no where near as good. Recently, the Garnier Micellar Water is all over the place. I haven't tried that Brand yet - but I plan to.) Beautylish had a Black Friday deal on Bioderma - buy two get one free + free shipping. So I finally pulled the trigger. (Side note: it arrived in the cutest packaging with a hand written letter.) It has a pump! Pumps make all the difference in the world late at night when you're feeling extra lazy/tired but must take off your makeup. Best of all, it's fragrance-free. Bioderma is so effective at removing every bit of eye makeup - even stubborn mascara. Occasionally, I also use this as a toner.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara*
I'm not going to lie, I'm a drugstore mascara girl at heart. I enjoy sampling high-end mascaras from time to time; this was no exception. This mascara provides a TON of volume. I really like applying a thick layer, letting it dry, combing it with a metal lash comb, then applying another thin layer - it looks like I'm wearing false lashes. (I don't have the time or patience for those.) The mascara doesn't flake or clump and it comes off pretty easy with micellar water. Disclosure: I received this product complimentary for testing purposes from Influenster.

laundry hair & major lashes,
-Kaitlyn

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August Favorites

Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

Alpha Hydrox Extra Strength Deep Therapy Foot Cream
My feet have been so dry lately. My lips and feet have always been problem areas for me. I was looking for a new foot cream that would really help; this cream had great reviews. It contains 12% glycolic acid, so it really penetrates and exfoliates. I've been using this nightly most of the month and my feet have definitely improved.

Mr. Robot
I marathoned the television series Mr. Robot this month and I really enjoyed it. If you're a fan of the movie Fight Club and shows about technology and mental disorders, definitely check Mr. Robot out! The show has 98% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Ocean Water
I visited the beach for a vacation at the end of August. Ocean salt water does so much good for your skin. After just one day there, my skin felt lighter, softer, and refreshed. Ocean water is more or less a natural exfoliant; my dry patches and blemishes completely disappeared. Not to mention, I had natural beach waves all week - with no product required!

OPI Push & Shove 
Purchasing this polish was sort of an accident. I was on the hunt for silver craft paint, and ended up purchasing this on eBay for $6. I was intrigued - a polish that required a mandatory base coat and no top coat. (Plus, who isn't a Gwen Stefani fan?) It promised "one night of wear" - which was somewhat off-putting. This polish only lasted two days before flaking off badly. I feel like OPI could've improved the formula a bit more. The color was so awesome - I felt like I had mirrors/reflectors for finger nails. This polish is good for occasions, but it can't handle normal use of your hands.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
I raved about this spray in the past. I started a second bottle this month. In my opinion, it's basically an all-in-one product - dry shampoo, texturizing spray, light hair spray, and hair refresher. It smells so amazing. The only negative is the price - $42 for a full-size bottle. I'm saving Birchbox points!

mirror nails & beach waves,
-Kaitlyn

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July Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month.

Joico K-Pak Conditioner
This is my holy grail conditioner. I feel like I can use the most horrible shampoo in the world and this conditioner will still make my hair feel, look, and smell great. I always purchase the liter size online just because it's more cost effective for my long hair. Not to mention, a salon pump makes everything SO much easier! I finished a liter of this a few months ago. Since then, I've been using beauty box conditioner samples to switch things up and quit hoarding products. After taking a break from K-Pak and using it again, I noticed an immediate and huge difference in my hair. I can't recommend this enough. 

OPI Nail Polish in Coca-Cola Red
This is truly a coke can shade in a nail polish bottle. It's the most perfect red. I've been wearing it on my toes all month. 

Real Techniques Sculpting Brush
It's been a LONG time since I've purchased a makeup brush. My Sonia Kashuk Angled Brush that I purchased YEARS ago was starting to shed, so I needed a new bronzer brush. I've been loving my Real Techniques Blush Brush, so I figured I'd try another one from the brand. This sculpting brush is really dense, so it's great at applying product AND blending it out. I've been using this brush daily for bronzer and I'm really impressed. Not to mention, I got an awesome deal on the brush (I used a 20% off Ulta coupon, $2 off Manufacturer coupon - from the Walmart Beauty Box, and a $1.50 Ibotta rebate.) I got this brush for just under $5 - which makes me like it even more!

Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Perfume
I've purchased this perfume twice and have taken it back because it just didn't work with my body chemistry. By the end of the day, it smelled powdery and old lady. I love the way it smells in the air or on the sample paper. Recently, I received some samples in a swap. I decided to give a try once more - this time, I'm only spraying it on my clothes. Which is weird, but my body chemistry doesn't interfere and it smells the same way (like it should) all day long. I really like the floral notes combined with patchouli that leaves a spicy scent. I've been wearing this almost all month. I like it almost as much as I like Stella by Stella McCartney - that's saying a lot. 

pumps & patchouli,
-Kaitlyn

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May Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Macadamia Healing Oil Hair Spray
I've been using Moroccan Oil and the Macadamia Mask for years. When I received this oil spray in my Birchbox, I was pretty excited as I thought it would be a combination of both. This oil spray doesn't smell like the hair mask, unfortunately. I've been reaching for this oil spray all month to tame fly-a-ways, split ends, and overall dryness. I really like how I can apply it in a hurry and not worry about having residue on my hands like when applying most regular hair oils.

Versace Bright Crystal Perfume
My beloved perfume, Stella by Stella McCartney, is running low. I have no desire to purchased another one anytime soon as the price keeps going up. So, I've been looking for other fragrance options. I got this mini on eBay over a year ago. I really like wearing this scent in the hotter months. It's clean, light and summery.

hair oils and perfumes,
-Kaitlyn

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Three Days, Three Boxes

I'm still holding up pretty well with my empties budget/no-buy and concentrating on finishing products I already own. *pats self on back* The only downside to buying less is fewer products to haul and review. I accumulated three beauty boxes/bags in three days and it almost felt like a haul. I figured an unboxing/haul only made sense...

Birchbox March 2015
I really like how Birchbox now has sample choice. Don't get me wrong, I love surprises but it's nice every now and then to be able to make a decision, too. This month, I chose It's a 10! Miracle Leave-in Product; this is my HG detangler and I figured I could use a travel size. I received a sample choice confirmation and spoiler email. I was a little disappointed my box featured totally different products. Birchbox informed they ran out of inventory. Bummer!

Products:

• Benefit Watt's up! Highlighter
• Derma E Evenly Radiant Brightening Day Creme SPF 15
• Macadamia Nourishing Moisture Masque
• Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Powder Spray
• Roloxin Light Revitalizing Facial Masque Treatment (set of 2)

I already owned/tried three of these products... that has never happened to me in the history of my Birchbox experience. (Nearly four years!) On the plus side, this is probably the highest value box I've ever received - $10 for over $50 worth of product. Impressive! I'm generally always pleased with my monthly Birchbox. Birchbox is a monthly subscription service that brings you new beauty products tailored to your personal profile. Sign up here. (referral link)

Walmart Beauty Box Spring 2015
The Walmart Beauty Box is a seasonal subscription box that cost $5. (There are only 4 boxes a year, $20 in total.)

Products:

• Dove Go Fresh Mandarin & Tiare Flower Seed Body Wash (travel size)
• Garnier Miracle Sleeping Cream (foil packet)
• Lady Gaga Fame Fragrance (sample)
• Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation (foil packet)
• Neutrogena Healthy Skin Boosters Facial Cleanser (White Tea & Vitamin E) (sample)
• Nivea In-Shower Lotion (foil packet)
• Rimmel Lash Accelerator Mascara (full size)
• Schwarzkopf essence Ultime Omega Repair & Moisture Shampoo (travel size)
• Schwarzkopf essence Ultime Omega Repair & Moisture Conditioner (travel size)
• $14 in coupons

I'll admit I was a little confused when opening the box, nothing really screamed 'Hello spring!' to me. I'm generally always disappointed with fragrance vials - this one REALLY annoyed me since it came out 3 years ago!! (Subscription boxes normally showcase new fragrances.) However, I'm looking forward to trying everything else. The mascara alone retails for over $5.00. I'm guessing the value of this box is close to $20 plus $14 in coupons. I think this box is totally worth it if you're into drugstore products. Sign up here.

 
Whole Foods Beauty Bag
Whole Foods launched a beauty bag for beauty week. (It hit shelves March 21, 2015. This is not a subscription box. It is/was available in stores only.) The bag retailed for $18 and has a value of over $60! See more details here.

Products:

• Acure Cell Stimulating Facial Mask
• Derma E Microdermabrasion Scrub
• Gabriel Mascara
• Giovanni 2chic Blackberry & Coconut Milk Ultra-Repair Shampoo
• Hello, Beauty Bag
• Pacifica Eye Shadow Duo (or Lipstick)
• Trilogy Vital Moisturizing Cream 
• $5 off coupon for any Biosil Product

I saw this bag was being released and knew I had to have it. Three vegan skincare products (& more!) for under $20? Yes, please! I've been eying a few Giovanni products, so that caught my eye too. I would've preferred the lipstick but my local store was only offering the eyeshadow. A more neutral color eyeshadow duo would've been nice, but otherwise no complaints! I'm happy the bag is 'plain'; I'll probably actually use it instead of storing it with the all of the obnoxious printed bags companies usually giveaway. 

surprise samples,
-Kaitlyn

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February Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Jordana Easyliner for Lips in Rock n Rose
This is an oldy but goody. I keep coming back to this one. I've been loving matte lips lately. I've been wearing this on its own most of the month.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray 
I've raved about this one too many times. It's part dry shampoo, part texturizing spray - 100% genius. It smells amazing. Just try. it. This product is making me want to try everything else from Oribe.

Parlor Moisturizing Sea Salt Spray
I received this in my Birchbox. This salt spray is super fine and light - not sticky and heavy, like other salt sprays I've tried in the past. It adds texture without a ton of product buildup... win-win.

Simple Cleansing Micellar Water
I FINALLY tried Bioderma - only a small decant. But I really liked it and I was curious how other micellar waters would compare. This was sort of an impulse buy. (It was on sale and I didn't read any reviews first.) I must I say I liked Bioderma better, but the Simple one comes pretty dang close. It's a super effective makeup remover without irritation or a scent.

Wet n Wild Lipstick in Bare it All (902c)
Again, I've been loving matte lips all-month. When I didn't wear the Jordana easy liner - I wore this. It's such a pretty, natural shade.

A 'random' favorite is a storage solution! I FINALLY got my hands on the Up & Up nail polish dispenser. It has the pump dispenser lid, very similar to Zoya's Remove+. Using this huge bottle of Clinique Toner has been a hassle: it's heavy when it's full, I'm paranoid I'm going to spill it, and it doesn't even fit in my bathroom drawer. Taking off my makeup feels like such a chore sometimes; this dispenser has made my skin care routine more effective and effortless.

matte lips & texturized hair,
-Kaitlyn

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January Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

BECCA Powder Highlighter in Opal
This highlight powder has been on my wishlist for a few months. Brad got it for me for Christmas and I haven't stopped using it since. It gives the most perfect sheen and isn't chalky at all.

FAGE Total 0% Raspberry Greek Yogurt
In general, I'm not a huge fan of yogurt but I know it has a lot of benefits. Most regular yogurt always contains too much sugar for my liking. I like plain greek yogurt with toppings (granola, fruit, etc.) but I can never eat a full container of yogurt before it goes bad. These single cups always on sale for $1.00 at Kroger. I decided to give them a try. I tried about five flavors and raspberry has been my favorite so far. I like how it's the perfect amount and the bendable cup is genius. I've been eating this and Sunchips for lunch most of the month.

KOR Aura Water Bottle
This was in the Birchbox 'Sweat the Small Stuff' gift set that I gave Brad for Christmas. This water bottle has been on my wishlist for over a year. So of course, I wanted it for myself. The design is so sleek. The mouth opening is a perfect fit and makes it easy to take big gulps without spilling water all over the place. The carry lid is an awesome touch too. I'm considering buying a second one and donating all of my other water bottles.

OPI My Paprika is Hotter Than Yours
This is a perfect orange-red shade. I think it would look great on all skin tones. I wore it most of the month.

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
I am so obsessed with this stuff. It's part dry shampoo, part texturizing spray, and has the best smell. I'm definitely buying a full size when this runs out. I'm looking forward to trying more Oribe products, too!

highlighters & water bottles,
-Kaitlyn


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September Favorites

'Favorites' posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) 'rediscovered' items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Benefit Hoola Bronzer*
I originally got this as a deluxe sample perk from Sephora; I've been loving it to add some color to my pale face. I think it would be great for all skin tones. I've always heard so much hype about this product but it was a little too pricey for me and I was happy with my drugstore bronzers. Luckily, I won a full-sized bronzer for when I finish up this sample. (Thank you Benefit x Birchbox!)

Jordana Easyliner for Lips in Rock N' Rose
This is an oldy but goody. Recently, I've been just wearing this as an all-over lip color and topping it with a balm or gloss. It's a great shade!

Macadamia Healing Oil Spray
This is definitely in my top five favorite Birchbox samples. I've been using the Macadamia mask for years, so I was super excited to try this. (I chose it in September's Birchbox choice.)  My hair has been so soft lately and I think it's a combination of using the Macadamia mask, MoroccanOil on damp hair, and using this healing oil spray on the ends of my dry hair. The smell was a little overpowering at first but I've grown to like it.

Visiting the newly opened Birchbox SoHo Store was a life-favorite for me this month. I've been a huge Birchbox fan for over three years, so visiting the store was pretty much the only thing on my to-do list while in New York. In the store, products were organized by type, not brand - which makes it so much more convenient. I got to build my own Birchbox and purchase a few items I've been eyeing for awhile with a fun and helpful staff.

(nails: Ruffian Naked, criss-cross ring, BCBG Scarlet peplum top)

I've been loving nude nails again. Nude nail polish goes with everything, makes your fingers look longer and skinnier, and chips aren't nearly as noticeable - score!

Lately, I've been loving all things oxblood/burgundy. Every item of clothing I see in this color I end up wanting. This is such a flattering color for pale skin and dark hair. On the plus side, I'm stepping away from black and adding some color to my closet.

new samples & oxblood clothes,
-Kaitlyn

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March Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Anastasia Of Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Caramel
I am growing tired of sharpening my Prestige Brow Perfection pencil so frequently; I wanted a mechanical pencil and something more precise. After reading all the raves about this, I decided to try it out. I have been enjoying using it this month, but I'm not sure it's really worth the value.

Clinique Cheek Pops in Peach & Berry
I haven't purchased any high-end blushes in the longest time. I did some research and checked these out in person... I knew I had to have them. The packaging is compact and adorable. They're powder blushes but go on like a cream and give an awesome sheen.

Coconut Oil
I've been reading about all the uses and benefits of coconut oil for the longest time; I can't believe it has taken me this long to purchase some! So far, I've only used it as makeup remover and lotion. (Using it as a sugar scrub and hair mask are on my to-do list!) Coconut oil has been the BEST eye makeup remover I have ever used; my mascara practically melts right off after applying this; I don't think I'll ever be purchasing makeup remover ever again.

The Wet Brush
I tried the Tangle Teezer a few years ago, this is similar but much better. After breaking another cheap hair brush, I knew it was time to try something new. I watched a few YouTube videos on The Wet Brush and I was sold. Tangled hair is much more manageable with this brush, and you can use it wet or dry!

cheek pops & coconut oil,
-Kaitlyn

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January Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Dry Shampoos
I'm definitely in a winter funk and I have been slacking when it comes to washing my hair.  I've been loving dry shampoo to hide the oiliness and add volume. I've been using both Psssst and Oscar Blandi all-month. I'm been eyeing some others from Batiste, Dove, and Suave.

J.R. Watkins Peppermint Foot Repair Salve
This has been on my wishlist for a long time. I finally cashed in some Birchbox points and decided to throw this in my cart, too. The salve takes some getting used to if you're a lotion/cream user, but it's worth it. I noticed my feet were softer after just three uses!

Revlon Highlighting Palette in Bronze Glow
I don't need another bronzer, I thought as this ending up in my basket while at CVS. I've really enjoyed using this; it provides just the right amount of color and glow when you swirl your brush in all of the colors. It's similar to Physician's Formula Shimmer Strips.. you can also use the individual colors for eyeshadow or highlight.

Ruby Wing Color Changing Nail Polish in Kitten Heels
This arrived in my January Birchbox and I haven't taken it off since. The staying power was great. No chips until Day 4-5 (miracle!) It only changed colors in the sun a few times; I think the sun has to be at just the right angle. Both the pink and red are vivid, pretty colors.

Urban Decay NAKED 3 Palette
I've tried all of the NAKED eye palettes, and this one definitely works the best for me. There are endless eye looks and all of the rose-gold shades really make green eyes pop. The quality is nothing but amazing... as usual!

peppermint feet & kitten heels,
-Kaitlyn

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September Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Oddly, I haven't given a lot of thought to makeup this month. (I didn't buy a single new product!) However, I did buy a few replacement items that I was out of or about to be out of; I have raved about Joico K-Pack conditioner and Macadamia Deep Repair Masque one too many times, so I'll spare this post but I still highly recommend both of them!

I've really been loving the dark nail trend on myself and everyone else... It screams fall is near! I didn't have one specific color I reached for all month. OPI My Private Jet, Zoya Raven, and Germanicure by OPI are few of my go-to fall shades.

vampy nails & conditioned hair,
-Kaitlyn

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August Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month."

Jordana Twist & Shine Moisturizing Balm Stain in Honey Love
If you're a fan of Clinique Chubby Sticks & Revlon Kissable Balm Stains, you'll definitely like these!  The Jordana ones are more sheer, smell/taste better, and are a lot cheaper.  Honey Love is a wearable, pretty pink shade.

Sinful Colors Leather Loose Nail Polish
I saw this on Nouveau Cheap's site and I immediately had to have it.  Advertising as nail polish with "patent leather accents" seemed a little gimmicky to me, at first.  But the matte finish with a little shimmer does remind me of patent leather.  This color is pretty unique and feels cool, too.  For only $2, it's definitely a winner in my book. (*Extra bonus - this week, (9/1-9/7) Sinful Colors polishes are only .99 cents at Walgreens!)

I made quite a few repurchases this month. So here are a two "oldies but goodies" that I haven't raved about in awhile:

It's a 10 Miracle Leave in Product
This product is a 10-in-1.  I mostly use it when my hair is feeling extra dry and/or tangled... it does a great job and smells great, too.  I finally just invested in the 10oz bottle, which I should've done a long time ago!

Maybelline The Rocket Volum' Express
This has been my go-to mascara for the past few months. I've tried others but I keep coming back to this one. The volume is great, it lengthens quite a bit, too.  Best of all - it doesn't smudge and it's pretty easy to get off at night.

leather nails,
-Kaitlyn

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April Favorites

"Favorites" posts/videos discuss the products (and other misc things) you loved for that month. The products can either be purchased that month or (old) "rediscovered" items. Favorites are published at the end of the current month or at the beginning of the following month. 

Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover for lids, lashes, & lips
I'll admit, this was a long-time favorite that I just got tired of paying for. (A little pricey at $18.00.) I've been using drugstore removers for the past few months; most of the time, I was still waking up with mascara on after I thought I had gotten it all off the night before. This remover truly does get everything off easily... no surprise raccoon eyes the next morning!

Maybelline Chic Naturals Expert Wear Peal Eyeshadow in Champagne Fizz
I needed a new lighter (paler) highlight shade. This caught my eye at CVS, a complete impulse buy, and luckily, it works great. It's slightly chalky compared to some of my higher-end shadows, but it gets the job done especially for the price (around $4.00.) It looks great on the brow bone area.

Olay Wet Cleansing Cloths
I've been a fan of Olay wipes for the past few months. I saw these at my local dollar store (3 for $1.00) and I grabbed a few packs. These do a great job at getting all of the makeup off without leaving a sticky feeling behind. I've been loving these since they're individually wrapped. These are great to keep in your purse for last minute sleepovers or when you have those I-need-my-makeup-off-now moments after a long day.

Oscar Blandi pronto invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray
Every dry shampoo I have tried in the past has a left a white residue behind. I received this with my Birchbox points awhile back, but I promised myself I would finish all my other dry shampoos before I started to use this one. This is my favorite one, simply for the fact that it is clear - great for us dark-haired girls! Not a huge fan of the scent... something lemony. But overall, it's still a good product.

Victoria's Secret Love my Body Nearly Nude Body Wash in White Tea & Sage
I purchased this during the semi-annual sale, but I didn't start using it until the beginning of the month. It smells amazing and has a great texture. The scent isn't overpowering, so you can still layer it with your other products. It makes a decent bubble bath, too!

lemon hair and no raccoon eyes,
-Kaitlyn

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