Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

National Lipstick Day

I don't actually wear lipstick that much—with the exception of a killer smokey eye, I try to keep a more natural look.


With that being said, it was fun to learn a few quick facts about the stick of color that has been used to seduce through centuries of civilization:

A University of Manchester study found that a woman wearing red lipstick capture’s a man’s gaze over three times longer than one who is wearing no lipstick at all. (you beauty)

999 by Christian Dior is supposedly the first shade ever worn on a Dior runway (The Cut)



Men continued to wear lip color for centuries – including George Washington – but the look came to an abrupt end during the French Revolution when wearing lipstick was seen as a sign that you sympathized with the oppressive aristocracy. (you beauty)

No. 19 by Yves Saint Laurent is the first shade created by the designer himself (The Cut)



The Lipstick Index follows trends in the economy—when a recession hits, lipstick sales increase, because women view it as a more affordable luxury during periods of financial stress. (Jezebel)

In Pennsylvania in the 1700s, a marriage could be annulled on the deceptive grounds that a man’s wife had used lipstick or other cosmetics during the couple’s courtship. (you beauty)

Pirate by Chanel is one of the six shades created to mimic Coco Chanel's signature red lip (The Cut)



During dark and middle ages in Europe, lipsticks were often viewed as a fashion accessory of prostitutes and lower class women. The only time when it was used in high circles was during and shortly after the reign of English Queen Elizabeth I. (Lipstick History)

About 81% of American women wear lipstick, as compared to 70% of French women who tend to favor a more “au naturel” beauty look. (you beauty)

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Birchbox February 2015

Even though it's practically March, I suppose it's better late than never to share my February Birchbox...





I haven't had the time to try out most of the samples, but I am particularly interested in trying the sea salt spray for Friday night. I did like the theBalm lipgloss--I never would have gone out of my way to choose a pink lip color, it's cute. 

Thursday, January 15, 2015

How to Set Up Your Arbonne Party

If you're just starting to launch your Arbonne business, here are some tips and tricks on how to organize your materials and samples for your events.

1. Get the right materials for prospects 


Be sure to order the extra catalogues and brochures, such as "The Arbonne Advantage" or the "Host Planner" handout, as well as a sign-in sheet or form. You want to make sure you're providing your guests with the most information about Arbonne and the different ways that they can engage in the business--remember that everyone you meet has the potential to be a consultant, a preferred client, a host, or a referral. 


2. Put together smart, informational signage

My roommate Brittany, who is also an Arbonne consultant, put together these great looking sheets that broke down all of the benefits of being a consultant, host and preferred client. This way guests can read some information before you present and get an idea of how they would like to join Arbonne.

Detox tea with local honey

3. Group your products by line and place them around the room


It's common sense, but make it easy for your guests to walk and talk to see all of the different product lines. It's kind of awkward when everyone flocks into one part of the room in a cluster. 


RE9 Anti-Aging line, Arbonne's best-selling line

The Calm line, for sensitive skin

4. Add personal touches to your decor


Present the products in way that reflects both your style and Arbonne's pure, safe and beneficial image. I always love fresh flowers in my house anyway, but I also bought platters to put some of the product lines on. You can also use linens, non-scented candles, and other party accessories--like matching plates, napkins, or silverware--to make it feel extra special. 


FC5 line

Pure, safe, beneficial cosmetics

5. Say thank you!


Remember when you were a kid and left a birthday party with a little favor? Give the gift of that same excitement with a goodie bag for your guests. You can choose from a selection of mini-product samples in the Business Aids section of Arbonne's website. Be sure to include your business card with your Arbonne consultant ID # with a little thank-you note, too!

Monday, January 12, 2015

Birchbox: January 2015

Yay for the first Birchbox of 2015!





From left: It's a 10 Hair Miracle Leave-In Product Plus Keratin; Perlier Intensive Nurturing Body Balm in Shea Lavender; When Travelmate Sheet Mask (set of 4 masks); COOLA Tinted Matte SPF 30 for Face ; Manna Kadar Lip Locked in All of Me

Update on my December 2014 Birchbox


I definitely plan on buying Catherine Malandrino's Paris de Style eau de parfum. I also loved the Sumita contrast eyeliner in jaipur gold, it was a nice switch from my typical black eyeliner. 

Tuesday, January 6, 2015

My First Birchbox

One of my awesome Christmas gifts was a Birchbox from my brother Dylan.


I've heard about it for a while, but never checked it out--I'm more in tune with what's happening with clothes and tech than I am with beauty, specifically.


If you haven't heard of Birchbox, it's basically a service that ships you a box of beauty samples each month. If you like the samples, you can visit the Birchbox website and buy the full-size products online.


From left: Whish shaving cream in acai grapfruit; 

Just guess what my favorite thing in this box is, I dare you...

One of the things that I am slightly concerned about with beauty and health products are the ingredients, but it's comforting to know that Birchbox does have Ingredient-Conscious Picks

Looks like I'm getting prettier for 2015!

Saturday, December 27, 2014

Arbonne Nightly Resurfacing Pads and Resurfacing Solution

The Nightly Resurfacing Pads and Resurfacing Solution are a part of Arbonne's "Genius" line. 



After two weeks, the resurfacing pads and solution are clinically proven to reduce the look of dark spots and fine lines. I've been using them for over five weeks and, for the most part, I love the way my skin looks and feels in the morning because of them. 

The only trouble with the "resurfacing" aspect of the product is that it resurfaces my acne scars... I can tell, though, that the scars that have resurfaced so far healed properly once they went down. 

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Deals on Arbonne's Holiday Gift Sets

Give the gift of pure, safe and beneficial for Christmas!


Arbonne just announced that select gift packages in the 2014 Pure Holiday will be discounted at 20%-50% off! If you're still looking for holiday gifts for your family and friends, here are some of the amazing gift sets that are a part of Arbonne's 2014 Pure Holiday collection:

Arbonne In Bloom Gift Set--includes In Bloom Eau De Toilette and Body Lotion (jasmine, orange flower, ylang-ylang, and sandalwood)


ABC Arbonne Baby Care Bright & Bubbly Bath Gift Set--includes Morning Baby Bubble Bath (apple, banana scent) and Dream Sweetly Bubble Bath (lavender, coconut)


Pampermint Hand & Foot Care Gift Set--includes Hand Lotion and Foot Cream (peppermint)



Shea Butter Collection Hand Lotion Trio--includes Blissful Vanilla, Peaceful Green Tea, and Original Shea Butter 

Victoria Lake Palette--includes Sunset Sheer Moisture Lipstick, Glisten Cheek Highlighter, and four eyeshadow colors: Ripple, Maple, Dawn, and Cloud




Check out the complete list of 2014 Pure Holiday gift sets on Arbonne's website!

Monday, November 17, 2014

Arbonne SeaSource Detox Spa Sea Mud Face & Body Mask

SeaSource Detox Spa is another one of Arbonne's body care lines, but it's specific aim is to restore and detoxify hair and skin.

I am used to doing facials at home--it's a weekly part of my beauty routine.

When I tried the Sea Mud Face & Body Mask, it felt as effective as a facial treatment I would get at a spa. During the 10-15 minutes I wore the mask, I could feel it working--there is a heated sensation while the mask dries. When I rinsed it off with warm water, it peaked at an even warmer temperature, but once it was off, my skin was glowing.


"This detoxifying, foaming body scrub gently exfoliates and cleanses toxins from the skin's surface, increasing microcirculation and stimulating skin to promote a softer, smoother look. Specially formulated with sea botanicals and sea salt"

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Exclusive Beauty and Fashion Discounts for Salve Regina Students

With all of the amazing local businesses in Newport, it's hard not to break the bank between the waterfront restaurants and the chic boutiques. Thankfully, most places downtown offer student specials and discounts during the school year, which conveniently falls during the city's "off-season" from the crazy tourist traffic.

In other words, if you're a college student in Newport, small businesses want you.

On Thursday, November 13th, JF3 Salon will be offering Salve Regina students 25% off hair and beauty appointments. Hair appointments must be booked with Brooke, Courtney or Tara to redeem the 25% off discount. Ashley, JF3 Salon's esthetician and beauty extraordinaire, does facials, spray tans and makeup applications with Youngblood cosmetics. 

I've been going to JF3 Salon since last year--Tara is single-handedly responsible for my transformation from Pocahontas (long, dark hair) to "beach bunny" (medium-length, blonde highlights).  I've also gotten several facials with Ashley, my favorite being the Repechage Four Layer Facial with Deep Pore Cleansing

This is what my hair looks like now--you should see what it looked before and immediately after...

Then, on Friday, November 14th, Laura Jean Denim Shop will be hosting an all-day shopping event for Salve Regina students:


Even if you're not up for a full-blown makeover, it might be worth at least getting a blowout before the polar vortex lands in Newport. At least if you lose power, your hair will still look and feel fabulous...

Also, don't forget to take advantage of Newport Restaurant Week lunch and dinner specials through Sunday, November 16th! 

Sunday, November 9, 2014

Weekend Reads | 9

Photo Credit: This Is Glamorous

All of the fashion inspiration you really need for fall... Autumn Style Inspiration: Leather Weather | This is Glamorous

Daydreaming about Paris, as usual... Top 5 Gardens to Discover in Paris | A Luxury Travel Blog

Just found out about YSL Beauté's collaboration with Google Glass nearly two months after the fact... Cosmetics Counters Ramp Up Personalized Service to Keep Up | The New York Times 

I came across this site looking for iPhone covers and I plan on making it a regular resource... blog tips | Wonder Forest

Here's something sweet to wrap up your Sunday...  white | FASHION DISTRACTION

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Arbonne FC5 Invigorating Body Cleanser and Conditioning Body Moisture

With the cold weather finally coming around, it's important to keep your skin supple and hydrated in the harsher elements. 

Drinking plenty of water is the first step to staying hydrated, but you can take the steps to equip your personal care regimen with the right products to moisturize your skin. 

Naturally, when selecting the next Arbonne products to try, it made sense to use the FC5 Invigorating Body Cleanser and the Conditioning Body Moisture together. I really love the scent--I typically stay away from fragrance, but Arbonne's strict ingredient policy ensures that there are no parabens, phthalates, etc. that are usually found in fragrances.  After using these products together for four days straight, I noticed that my skin was super soft and well-hydrated.



Want to see reviews of other Arbonne products? Check out ChickAdvisor.

Monday, October 20, 2014

Arbonne FC5 Exfoliating Body Scrub

As an Arbonne consultant, I keep a stock of samples for clients to try out.

I currently have samples of the FC5 skincare line, the RE9 anti-aging line, and a variety of cosmetics, but I will continue to build my sample range. In the meantime, it only makes sense to try the products so I can honestly attest to Arbonne's pure, safe and beneficial standards.

Aside from the Clear Advantage line and starter cosmetics, which were the products that really hooked me on Arbonne, the FC5 Exfoliating Body Scrub is one of the first samples I tried as a consultant. I like how the exfoliating beads are smaller and more gentle than your typical exfoliator. Even though the scrub looks blue/green, Arbonne is made without artificial dyes and fragrances.


"Exfoliates, gently foams, and polishes skin leaving it smooth, fresh, and visibly hydrated"

**Limited time offer: Purchase the FC5 Shower set--includes the Nourishing Daily Shampoo and Conditioner, plus Invigorating Body Cleanser--and get the FC5 Exfoliating Body Scrub for only $12. Check it out!

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Sips and Style

Providence-based personal stylist Jill Marinelli and Kirsten Brusse of The Daily Beauty Blotter will be hosting an event on Thursday, October 23 at Gasbarro's Wines. Marinelli and Brusse will combine their expertise in fashion and beauty to share their best style advice for fall...

Tickets are available on Marinelli's website.


Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Falling In Love with Arbonne

Earlier this month, I became an independent consultant with Arbonne, a 34-year old health and wellness company dedicated to bringing customers the best products in cosmetics, skincare and weightloss.

I have always been skeptical of direct marketing "schemes," but Arbonne is set up in such a way that its not just about selling botanically-based, vegan products --Arbonne is about developing yourself and your life in order to do the same for others.

In addition to sharing my thoughts about fashion, lifestyle and travel on my blog, I will also be sharing my Arbonne journey. This week, I will start by going over some products that are currently in my "Arbonne Arsenal." 


I am in no way being sponsored or paid by Arbonne. For what it's worth, I only write about things that I have a personal connection and passion for.

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Florence Eau de Parfum by Tocca

While I was at The Apothecary Newport, I made the impulsive decision that it was time to get a perfume.

I used to wear body sprays from Bath and Body Works or CVS, but today, I was suddenly possessed with the idea that I needed to find a signature my fragrance.

The Apothecary carries philosophy and Tocca for perfume. After smelling each fragrance, I settled on Florence by Tocca. I already threw out the box with the description, but the fragrance's online description says it all:


"A Parisian beauty and sophisticate, Florence conjures memories of old-world Paris."

Monday, February 18, 2013

The Makeover: Pocahontas Turned Legally Blonde

In the past week and a half, my hair has transformed from being long and dark to short and blonde.


As I mentioned in an earlier post, I got my hair cut and styled by Tara at JF3 Salon. I donated one foot of hair.

A few days later, I went back to Tara again to go blonde--I would be lying if I said I wasn't mildly nervous. What if my hair didn't go as light as I wanted it to? What if, by some miracle, it got too light? After the four-hour process was finished--foils, steam, rinse, glaze, rinse again, blow-dry, and style--I couldn't be more pleased.



After my experience with Tara at JF3 Salon, I definitely plan on becoming a regular client. I have never had a salon I regularly go to--the only time I would go to a salon is to donate my hair--so I cannot wait to try out the salon's other services, like blowouts, manicures/pedicures, and makeup applications with Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics.

In the movie Coco Before Chanel, Chanel (played by Audrey Tatou) says "a woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life."

I have never been more ready for change than I am now. Let's go.