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.

Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick
I received this in my Sephora Play! Box this month. I was really afraid this was going to be a very dark, vampy shade. But it's actually more of a tinted balm. It's a beautiful berry shade. It's really easy to apply on-the-go. I've been wearing this almost every day since I received it!

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.)

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.

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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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.

Clarins Deodorant 
I never dreamed I would spend $19 on a deodorant, but it was well-worth it! This deodorant works great, smells nice (it reminds me of the plain Olay face lotion), and it doesn't leave any stains or residue in my clothes. 

Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser 
I finally made a Glossier order! Firstly, I really like how Glossier is beauty blogger who made her own brand. I like how their products are cruelty-free and made in the USA. I really like how they're all about simplicity and the no-makeup-makeup look. 

I've starting double (triple?) cleansing - I'll get off most of my eye makeup with Bioderma, use some type of makeup wipe, then go over my whole face with this cleanser and water. My face feels so much cleaner. I like how you can use this with OR without water. The name is appropriate - it does feel like a milky-jelly cleanser. 

Glossier Coconut Balm Dot Calm
I do like this product - the primary ingredients are petroleum jelly and lanolin. I feel like you could get similar results with cheaper drugstore products. But I do like the extra oils, cute tube, and coconut scent. I liked this so much I ordered the Cherry scent just days ago. 

NYX Tame & Flame Pomade in Brunette 
My brows aren't doing so well right now; I'm trying really hard to let them grow out. This pomade helps a ton to fill in sparse areas and just look overall more presentable. If you want bolder brows, this gel-like paint is definitely the solution. 

Sinful Colors Vacation Time
I've been wanting a nude-pink-brown-mauve nail polish for awhile. I saw Tom Ford Mink Brule in an ad - it was the color I've been looking for. But I refuse to spend $35 on nail polish. That lead me to hunt for a dupe - I discovered OPI Java Mauve-A was pretty close. The shade had been discontinued and was selling for anywhere from $12 to $25 on eBay and Amazon. ($10 is my limit for OPI.) I was about to give up until I discovered a blog post that stated Sinful Colors Vacation Time was a dupe for Java Mauve-A... I immediately ran to Walgreens to purchase it. It was a lot of research and work, but I'm happy with this mauve shade for only $2! 

coconut lips & mauve 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.

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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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.

Spring always motivates me to try more new products and take even better care of my skin. I discovered a few great products this month:

ELF Shape & Stay Wax Brow Pencil
I purchased this on a total whim. I've been using brow gels for the past few years; I've never tried a wax pencil... I was missing out. This twist-up wax pencil is an excellent product for only $2. I'll brush my brows, run the wax pencil over them, then fill them in. I've noticed I'm using a lot less brow product now, too. This wax pencil doesn't necessary glue your brows like the gel; it comfortably keeps them in place.

Jordana Easyliner for Lips in Honey Dip
Rock'n'Rose was my HG shade. I grabbed the shade Honey Dip during a Cyber Monday sale. I've been wearing this lip liner all month. It's slightly more natural looking than Rock'n'Rose. All of the Jordana liners are great for under $3. I really like how they're retractable, some higher-end liners still don't have that feature.

Nivea Invisible Roll on Deodorant
(WHY are Nivea deodorants not sold in the USA? I feel a little weird ordering deodorant online.) I really like the Pearl & Beauty deodorant. I decided to try out this one. Clinical deodorants work best for me but I'm really tired of them ruining all of my clothes. I switched to roll-on a few months ago, I find I have to apply it a few times a day but my clothes are in excellent shape - I guess it's a trade-off. This Invisible Black & White Deodorant smells a lot like fresh laundry/Woolite, which I'm definitely a fan of. I don't agree with the 48-hour claim, but I think it's a nice product.

Wet n Wild 1 Step Gel Nail Polish
I've turned into a nail polish snob... I've always thought drugstore nail polishes weren't all that. I prefer to purchase Zoya or OPI. Some Youtubers were raving about these 1 step gel polishes. I was intrigued and decided to give them a try. I purchased Left Marooned and Power Outage for 40% off at Rite Aid. After using them only twice, I really like them. They last just as long as my OPI/Zoya polishes.

Yes to Coconut Body Scrub
I've been on a coconut product kick lately. This scrub is meant to be used on dry skin. (This was a new concept to me; my past scrubs required water.) This scrub is very scratchy in a good way. It rinses away and doesn't leave any residue in the bath tub. My skin was left feeling so clean, soft, and refreshed.

wax pencils & Woolite deodorant,
-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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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. Here are my belated September favorites -

Caudalie Skincare
I've been loving all things Caudalie lately. All of their skincare products feel and smell amazing!

NYX Stay Matte Not Flat Powder Foundation
My Revlon pressed powder broke. I heard a few YouTubers raving about this NYX powder. I decided to give it a try - so far, I'm really impressed. It gets rid of shine and sets concealer really nicely. It doesn't leave a powdery or cakey look.

Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette
The Naked 2 Palette is by far my favorite. In September, I've been gravitating towards the Naked 3 Palette - this palette really screams 'it's fall' to me. Most of the colors really make my green eyes pop, too!

powders & palettes,
-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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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. 

The ridiculous southern heat index has made me pretty unmotivated when it comes to makeup. In turn, my June favorites is going up super late this month. Better late than never, right? I really like looking back at my past monthly favorites - I haven't skipped a month yet! 

Lately, I only wear a lot of makeup about once a week. Most days, it's very minimal or none at all. My skin is doing pretty good, regardless of the heat. I've been drinking lots of water and really just giving my skin a break. These have been my go-to products lately:

Benefit Gimme Brow in Light/Medium*
I've had this little tube for months. It's still going strong! At first, I thought this tube was a sample - nope, it's full size! The small wand is perfect for filling in and setting at the same time. On days I don't feel like messing with a pencil, this is always a must-use. 

Caudalie Beauty Elixir
I purchased this in a Caudalie gift set a LONG time ago. I just didn't understand or get the hype of this product. But recently, it's becoming an excellent product to use when I need a face/skin pick-me-up. I use it on a bare face or over light makeup - multiple times a day.

Origins Vitazing SPF15 Sheer Release Tint
This has been my go-to for years. It's pricey, but it lasts 3-4 months. I use a small amount daily. It does a pretty good job at evening out my skin tone with the release tint. The product comes out of the bottle gray but ends up a nude/tan shade - it's magic. It has SPF, which is much-needed all year but especially in the hot, summer months. Lately, I haven't felt the need to wear a lot of concealer with it, that's why I wanted to rave about it again. 

brows & skincare,
-Kaitlyn 

* = This product was sent to me for free through a Birchbox & Benefit giveaway. 

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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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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. 

I've been having some skin issues lately - mostly just dryness/redness and I'm not sure why. In April, I was all about skincare and wore minimal makeup not to cause any more irritation.

CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
I've been using this for about a month now and I really like it. The consistency is like a lotion, gel, and serum all in one. It dries pretty fast. I apply it before bed and wake up with moisturized skin.

Dr. Lipp Nipple Balm for Lips
I got this about a year ago with my Birchbox points. I rarely used it just because I didn't care for the consistency (very sticky) or scent. My lips have also been dry/flaky/red lately, so I was looking for a fix. I read many people raving about Lanolin on Reddit. As I was about to head to the store to pick some up, I remembered I had this. It has provided a lot of relief for my irritated lips - more so than any other product.

ELF HD Lifting Concealer
I'm not a huge fan of foundation, so I just wear concealer. When face redness kicks in, I need more coverage. I got this months ago but really haven't started using it until recently. Since green and red are opposites, this product camouflages my red spots nicely. Best of all, I'm using less concealer and I still don't have to mess with foundation.

Paula's Choice Resist Moisture Renewal Oil Booster
I received this in my Birchbox. I've barely made a dent in the sample and I've been using it nearly all month. I just use a drop or two on super dry areas before bed. In the morning, face redness and irritation is much more manageable.

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Color Correcting Adjust 
I've used this for a year or two. I've really been liking it in combination with the ELF HD lifting concealer. I like the silky consistency of this primer. It helps my powder products to stay on all day long.

green makeup,
-Kaitlyn

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Sephora Favorites: Skinstant Radiance

Calling all high-end skincare lovers, RUN to your local Sephora inside of JCPenney! One of my favorite things is to try out new high-end skincare. I don't have the budget to spend $40-$100 on one single skincare item, like a lot of companies charge. I always end up going for these value sets or beauty boxes that feature an assortment of skincare products. After trying them out, I can decide if it really is a miracle product and worth the high price tag.

Nouveau Cheap posted about this value set on Tuesday. I have been loving all of my other Sephora Favorites sets and knew I had to have this one. Not to mention, yesterday also launches the Beauty Insider 10% off sale with code "BILOVE". (Yes, I'm on a no-buy but I always hoard my Christmas gift cards for the April sale.)

I believe this set is available only in-store at Sephora inside of JCPenney; you can not purchase it online.

The Skinstant Radiance Set has 11 skincare samples and a makeup bag. The set says it's a $110 value, I had a difficult time believing that, so I did my own calculations:

• bareMinerals Mineralixirs 5-Oil Blend (0.1 oz.) - $2.94 value
• Boscia Tsubaki Oil-Infused Exfoliating Powder (0.35 oz.) - $5.97 value 
• Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF45 (0.17 oz.) - $4.42 value
• First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser (1.0 oz.) - (1.0oz retails for $5.50 at Sephora)
• GLAMGLOW Powermud Dualcleanse Treatment (0.5 oz.) - (0.5oz retails for $19 at Sephora)
• Josie Maran Argan Infinity Intensive Creamy Oil (0.16 oz.) - $2.04 value
• Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser (1.0 oz.) - $5.34 value
• Ole Henriksen Ultimate Lift Eye Gel (0.1 oz.) - $4.20 value
• Peter Thomas Roth Rose Stem Cell Bio-Repair Cleansing Gel (3.3 oz.) - $14.75 value
• Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter Body Lotion (1.7 oz.) - $1.50 value
• St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Lotion (2.85 oz.) - $14.96 value
• Sephora makeup bag - unknown value

I didn't triple check my math and I could've possibly made an error; according to my calculations, the product value comes out to $80.62. I guess Sephora put a $29.38 value on the makeup bag? (Someone please correct me if you see an error.)

Either way, $35 (plus 10-15% off) for $80+ worth of product and a makeup bag is an awesome deal! I'm super pleased and happy with this purchase. I haven't tried any of these exact products; I'll get to try out new skincare for months!

HE skincare junkie,
-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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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. 

Rimmel Show Off Lip Lacquer in Comet
I got this in a lighter color about a year ago. I liked the formula but didn't love the color. Recently, I saw the shade 'comet' at CVS for 50% plus I had a $1 off Rimmel coupon. (I paid about $2.00 for it, which makes me love it even more.) The applicator is awesome. I feel like the color suits me well. I've been wearing this almost every day.

Nuxe Reve De Miel Lip Balm (Pot & Stick)
I bought the pot form nearly a year ago. It's one of my favorite lip balms but using it in public just doesn't seem very hygienic. I was a few dollars away from free shipping on Amazon and decided to finally buy the stick. It doesn't leave a white cast, it tastes nice, and it's pretty moisturizing.

Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator
I got this in my Birchbox and have been using it weekly in the shower. I've been loving all face scrubs with microbeads, it just seems like a deeper cleaning and not abrasive. This one doesn't disappoint!

Himalayan Salt Lamp 
Long story short, I accidentally broke our bathroom lamp. It was from Ikea (we don't have an Ikea in Memphis - yet!) Not to mention, the $20 lamp is now sold out and is selling for nearly $80 on eBay. Umm, no thanks! I've been wanting a salt lamp for a few months but I couldn't think of a good place to put one. I guess it was a happy accident; I finally got a salt map! (This one, to be exact.) Salt lamps have a ton of benefits but I mostly just like how cool it looks. Plus, this one has a dimmer and has been making an awesome night light too!

orange lip balm & salt lamps,
-Kaitlyn

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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. 

Beautyblender
I was lucky enough to have received the beautyblender in one of my first Birchboxes a few years ago. I used it on and off for awhile; it's been in my makeup drawer for a few months. Recently, I fell in love with this tool all over again. It blends concealer and illuminating products so effortlessly!

Benefit Gimme Brow in Light/Medium
I've never been a fan of tinted brow gels. Birchbox x Benefit sent me this and I decided to give it a try. I've been liking this on days I don't have a ton of time to do my makeup and just want a bit more brow definition.

Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet
My skin has been so dry lately with the cold weather coming in. I've been shopping my stash and trying to use up a lot of my skincare samples.  This smells awesome and has a great texture.

ELF Studio Blush Palette
I was wanting some new blushes without paying a lot. I remembered emilynoel83 reviewing these blushes, so I decided to give them a try. I got both the light and dark palettes. These palettes are cool because you can easily remove the pans from the palette and make it custom to your needs. (Two blushes from the light palette and two from the dark palette are pictured.) All of the blushes are super pigmented and have great staying power.

Jordana Easyliner for Eyes & Easyliner for Lips
I've raved about these multiple times. Through the entire month of October, Walgreens had Jordana cosmetics for 40% off; some of the colors were being discontinued and were only .59 cents a piece. I bought a few more shades that I didn't already own. These are such a good value. Best of all, they're twistable - you never have to sharpen them.

Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum
I received this in my October Birchbox and started using it immediately. It's definitely helped with redness and dry skin patches. I'm contemplating purchasing the full size.

blushes & samples,
-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.

Milani Eye Tech Liquid Eyeliner
Black eyeliner hasn't been part of my routine in years. But lately, I've been admiring winged/cat eye looks and tutorials. The flashy "NEW" writing on this product and the fact I had some CVS Extrabucks to burn encouraged me to purchase this on a whim. It's so easy to use and comes off clean, too.  The compact size was great for vacationing/traveling.

OPI Nail Polish in Coca-Cola Red
I saw this in a magazine advertisement and immediately purchased it on eBay; I've been wearing it constantly since it arrived. It's a perfect red, exactly like a Coca-Cola can. The formula is great, as always.

Suave Moroccan Infusion Dry Shampoo
I used the Suave Moroccan Shampoo (not a huge fan). However, I did the like the smell. For only $3, I decided to give this a try. It works just as good as some of my high-end dry shampoos. Not only is good for hiding oily roots, but works pretty good on clean hair to add texture and boost waves.

cat eyes & Coca-Cola cans,
-Kaitlyn

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Haul: St. Louis

My last no reason shopping trip was in January - nearly half a year ago! Lately, when it comes to shopping, I'm always on a mission looking for just one item... in-and-out in just ten minutes. It was refreshing not to be looking for anything and to just aimlessly wander through a mall all day. In honor of my second no reason shopping trip this year, I thought a haul was appropriate:

Unfortunately, we no longer have LUSH in Memphis. I always look forward to visiting LUSH whenever I'm out of town. (My last visit was in March!) I picked up my two favorites: Ocean Salt Scrub & Sex Bomb Bath Bomb.

The only clothing item I'm 'need of' at the moment are shorts. The majority of my shorts from last year are too small or just fit weird. I'm having issues finding both comfortable and flattering shorts this season. I was contemplating between a pair of Joe's white shorts (flattering but not comfortable) and these H&M ones (comfortable, sort of flattering, but sheer.) For now, I went with the H&M ones. But the shorts hunt continues...

I'm obsessed with midi rings! However, I'm constantly losing or breaking them. I got two variety packages at H&M: I got 15 rings (all shapes, sizes, and colors) for $8.90; (that's about .60 cents a ring) I won't feel too bad about them disappearing anymore!

I have been wanting a Wildfox sweater for forever, but I could never talk myself into spending $100+ on a funky, not-everyday-wear, sweater; I was super excited when I found this one on sale. It's so comfortable! It feels like a soft blanket and will work as a great, year-round piece.

I scored this BCBGMAXAZRIA 'Carman' dress for 60% off. I think it will work as both a career and night-out piece. I'm a big fan of matte jersey material... it's comfortable and low-maintenance (no steaming or ironing!) Not to mention, how cool is the design?

Finally, no big shopping trip is complete without some sweets! We stopped at LaBonne Bouchée for macarons. They had 35 flavors to choose from (WOW!!) - it was both overwhelming and fun; I picked six flavors for myself. They have pre-packaged bags and boxes for a discounted price; I also got a grab bag for a gift. (If you can't tell, macarons aren't really a 'thing' here in Memphis, so I always try to find the best macarons in other cities when I'm out-of-town.)

disappearing rings & endless macarons,
-Kaitlyn

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